So I've got my new 350 in and since my last engine blew up due to ignorant oil changes by jiffy lube im now $6,500 times more aware of everything my car is doing.
My question is what are the best 2 or 3 gauges that would be the best way to monitor the condition of my engine. Like what should I ABSOLUTLEY watch while driving to make sure everyting is running ok?
Eventually I'll be running underdrive pulleys also so I heard that voltage needs to be watched but let me know what you think.
Eric

 

oil pressure and water tempurature.

Watch the water temp, it shouldn't really ever go much above 220*

If you car overheats, you could possibly blow a head gasket, warp the cylinder head or block mating surface, etc, etc.

Also watch the oil pressure gauge, It shoudn't really ever fall below 10psi. If it does, shut off the engine.

If your voltmeter should always read at about the same voltage when the engine is running. If it starts to read lower, keep a close eye on it. low voltage usually means two things, bad battery, or bad alternator.

 

oil and water if you're really worried about keeping track of your engine get a set of gauges with idiot lites too