If you’re like most drivers, you probably keep a good eye on your speedometer and your fuel gauge while driving but don’t give the other dashboard monitors much more than a passing glance – unless your engine begins to balk.
Monitor your RV's Instrumentation
To really understand your vehicle, and keep your engine running at maximum potential, closely watch the entire dash panel and learn to interpret what your engine is telling you. Installing and monitoring these instruments will help you manage your RV’s fuel economy and improve engine performance:
Tachometer
A fundamental gauge that will let you know whether you’re running within the engine’s torque and horsepower ranges. It’s especially useful when climbing hills and mountains. Use your tachometer as a guide, keeping the rpm level at the ideal power range, which varies among engine models.
Exhaust Gas Temperature Gauge
Designed specifically for diesel engines, the exhaust gas temperature gauge monitors how hard the diesel engine is working. Check your owner’s manual for the recommended peak exhaust gauge temperature (EGT); it’s usually around 1,200?F. If the EGT approaches the maximum, ease off the accelerator.
Air/Fuel Ratio Monitor
With the increase in reformulated fuels, gasoline engines may not get the right mix of fuel. If the fuel is too rich, they can get too much of it, causing it to waste gas and develop carbon deposits; or they may not get enough fuel, causing engine backfire. With a quick glance at an air/fuel ratio monitor, you can ensure the engine is getting the balanced fuel mixture. A ratio of 14.7:1 during part throttle cruise is considered ideal for low emissions and good fuel economy.
Manifold Vacuum Gauges
Specifically for gasoline engines, manifold vacuum gauges can help you get the best possible fuel economy. Connected to the intake passages of the engine, it monitors the varying levels of pressure inside the manifold. It can also signal sluggishness in the air-intake tract.
Boost-Pressure Gauges
Boost gauges monitor the output and effectiveness of a turbocharged or supercharged engine. You can monitor and then limit boost by easing on and off the accelerator. Excessive boost can increase engine stress.
To read more valuable articles on RV Maintenance Tips or how to keep your RV safe for travel, visit the Good Sam RV Emergency Road Service website, www.goodsamers.com
Tags: 5th wheel travel trailer, accelerator, camping, engine stress, fifth wheel travel trailer, instrumentation, manifold, monitor, motor home, motorhome, pressure gauge, recreational vehicle, rv
