two gauges or a switch for second tank?

[Kurt Combs]

I have a sending unit coming for my second gas tank so I will be able to finally tell how much gas it has in it without waiting until it runs dry. At this point I am trying to figure out how to wire a gauge to the new sending unit. I have two options and I don't know if the "coolest" is possible.

I am thinking about putting a second gauge in the space that is currently used by the ammeter. I would have to take power from the source that original gas gauge uses, maybe from the point it connects to the printed circuit. Then I was thinking of using the brake warning light as an idiot light for the charging system. Not sure how much wiring that requires, but the light doesn't work now and hasn't for six plus years. This would be cool because it would look stock and I could see how much fuel I have without switching between tanks. All changes could be reversed by removing the new wiring and reconnecting the originals. BTW, I plan to keep my manual valve on the floor for tank selection.

Second option is to tap into the orange wire going to the gauge and using a switch to select which tank the gauge is reading. Haven't decided where I would put the switch, but I am leaning towards a hole in the dash along side the emergency flasher (not cool). This would probably require cutting into the wire loom under the dash, I am not too keen on that idea. I think this is the easiest way to go, but not as cool.

Any ideas appreciated.

[Bob]

I'm thinking I've seen a tank selector switch that includes a switch for the gage as well. When you switch tanks the gage switches also... The same style as will be on your floor in your bump. Gonna look around and see if my memory is correct.

I do the same thing with three tanks. Two saddles and the one behind the seat. Run out saddles or take them to where I'd guess it should be pretty close... then keep my gaged tank as my reserve. Not so bad running out going down tbe road, but when you're stopped it can take a while to get it pumped back up. Been one of those things I keep putting off.

[Bob]

LMC does have a nice toggle switch with a bezel nut that looks like the rest of the dash parts. Not sure if it's two or three way... probably two by the looks of it.

[Kurt Combs]

The switch would be the easiest, just hoping someone knows if I can disconnect the orange wire before the gauge panel and run it to the switch without cutting the wires. It would be very cool if there is connector under the dash that I can intercept for a wire to run to and from the switch. I could make an angle bracket for the switch under the dash just like the factory did for their switches.

[Kurt Combs]

Now I am feeling a little stupid. Just went out and laid on my back and looked up under the dashboard at the wiring. Now, I hate laying on my back under a dashboard, it is hard on the body parts and I don't mean the truck's body. Anyway, there is a wire junction that I can pull apart and run to the switch about six inches away, and then I just run one wire back to the little red connector. Hardest part is going to be running the wire along the frame and through the firewall.