Vacuum Gauge Model??

[Rick Allen]

I'm thinking about installing a vacuum gauge between my primary Racor 220 filter and the Facet fuel pump to monitor and record any fuel flow restriction and filter replacement intervals.
While researching gauges online, I've come up with a wide range of prices. Does anyone have an opinion on the following manufacturers and any reason while I shouldn't just use the cheaper one?

Cheap DuraChoice Model...
http://www.amazon.com/dp/B00GMU29DI/ref=wl_it_dp_o_pC_nS_ttl?_encoding=UTF8&colid=YIY8TTOGDQIB&coliid=I3S2AZ397JTMVX&psc=1

Or the more expensive (and probably better) Racor..
http://www.jamestowndistributors.com/userportal/show_product.do?pid=6447&familyName=Racor+T-Handle+Vacuum+Gauge+Kit+

While my particular Racor model does not have a T fitting on top, I can certainly use any number of fittings to mount it to the "Out" hole on the filter housing.

Any help out there?? I've already completed the required TNO and Messageboard searches...

Thanks

Rick

[Craig Illman]

try here? http://www.sailorssolutions.com/?page=ProductDetails&Item=VG01

You might get more information to find a cheaper alternative

Craig

[mainesail]

try here? http://www.sailorssolutions.com/?page=ProductDetails&Item=VG01

You might get more information to find a cheaper alternative

Craig

This is what I use. You definitely want a "drag needle" gauge so you don't have to be in the engine room at full throttle to check it.... Just run your engine and occasionally look at where the drag needle is....

[Jim Hardesty]

Rick,
I installed a vacuum gauge as you described.  I don't always get a useful reading.  Because it's between the Racor and the OEM spin-on it only measures the condition of the Racor to the OEM.  When I installed the gauge thought I'd be able to see when the 2 micron Racor started to fill up then change the Racor, or both.  Doesn't work that way, they both get dirty and the first thing I see is the RPM's drop.  When I change the OEM only the vacuum gauge reads high.  Then I change the  Racor and it's low again (normal).  So I now change the OEM yearly, the Racor every other year or when the vacuum is high.
Don't know why the 2 micron doesn't stop every thing and keep the OEM clean.
FWIW  I use only clean fuel.  When I change the filters can't see much for dirt, water or any thing else.  Average year motor about 50 hours.
Hope this helps,
Jim

[Rick Allen]

Thanks all for the great info.  I agree that a "Drag Needle" is the way to go! The gauge will be installed as such:

Fuel Tank --Shutoff Valve--10 Micron Racor Primary Filter--Vacuum Gauge--Facet Fuel Pump--Secondary Filter--Knurled Knob--Engine..

[Ken Juul]

I haven't read all the links.  But I thought the vacuum guage could only monitor it's assigned filter.  For the Racor spin ons, it should go into the upper housing.  Am I missing something?

[Rick Allen]

Ken, I've seen installations where it's installed in-line between the Racor and the fuel Pump.  I believe on the Racor 220 series, if I get the right fitting I might be able to install the gauge at the second "Out" point on the filter...