I just bought a procharger branded autometer boost gauge. I didn't take it out of the package yet but it already has a reading of like 4 psi just sitting in there. Is this normal or do I have an inaccurate gauge?

 

Normal

 

broke - should be reading 0

 

The needle seems to have some movement to it as well if you wiggle it.

 

Some dont read right. Some are in package preset to a boost value. Hook it up and see if it idles approximately where you think it should

Edit: i should clarify, alot of boost gauges are 1-2 psi off when car is off, exposed to atmosphere. They dont always match your local barometer because they cant possibly calibrate it for every location on earth. Now autometer typically has their needles preset to a random value. In your case 4 psi. When you open it you will see on back of gauge the needle has been manually forced into that position. Remove the constraint and it should go back to zero. If not you can send back or live with it being off alittle.

 

You were right. There was a red tab pushed into the back of it that made it read where it was at. As soon as I removed it, it went to zero.

 

also. any time ya have a prob with a auto meter part.
you send it back to auto meter. and have it fixed..cost almost nothing.

i have them refurb there parts all the time. to new.

exampl.. procomp play back tach sells new $450+
paid $110 with a ding and a few rub marks..

sent to autometer all new parts with new shift light(sticker was coming off) shift light..new everything. test recalibrate.. total cost with shipping $24
(looks like it just came out of the box!)



so i had to upgrade the camaro to all procomp liquid filled guages..Fantastic Guys to deal with!!
6 guages all 2 5/8" & 2 guages 2"(a piller mt) total $300

Auto Meter best stuff out there!

boost gauge and tach with shift light and oil warning light under $200