Wiring a Tachometer

[wukong]

I have a 78 and later SS instrument cluster that I would like to install in my S-10 SBC project. My engine is a 350 with a HEI distributor. My question is where does the tach get it's signal and how to I wire it to the cluster?

 

[Doober]

Are you sure the cluster will fit? I've never tried it... factory G-Body tach wire is brown in the engine compartment, and white at the cluster.

 

[wukong]

Thanks for the lead. My S-10 is not wired for a tach and the Cluster was purchased on Ebay for an 82 Elky that I have given up on. I have not made any measurements of the cluster but visually it is about the size of the S-10's cluster with the Malibu's shroud cut away. To be honest I don't need the tach, but if it is there, I would be wise to make it work.

The wiring diagrams on this site show the tach signal originating at the distributor. I could make the assumption that the connection is the male spade next to the distributor hot wire. I don't wish to be the "a-s-s" in assume.

 

[Doober]

Yes, it's next to the power connector with a coil-in-cap style setup.

 

[wukong]

I have seen references to a "tachometer filter." What is this device? Where is it found? Do I need to get one?

 

[Doober]

Nah... it was to suppress radio noise, shouldn't be needed nowadays.