96 850's Scanguage, Ultraguage or Torque app?

Post by **JimBee** » 25 Jul 2014, 10:09

rspi got me thinking about using a monitor. I've used Torque Pro on a road trip a couple of years ago and found it useful for tracking mpg.
Do I need to upgrade? A gauge will be used mainly on my 5 speed manual so need to monitor trans temp. I like the idea of being able to set an alarm for engine temp and oil pressure.
Here's a discussion of the Scangauge and Ultraguage.
Have any members used these ? what do you think?
http://www.tacomaworld.com/forum/perfor ... gauge.html
Ultragauge: http://www.ultra-gauge.com/ultragauge/

Post by **rmmagow** » 25 Jul 2014, 11:11

The ultra-gauge looks pretty good. The 96 OBD is up near the coin holder right? So wriring shouldn't be bad. My 98 has the thing in the armrest so wiring up is a bit more work. Be nice if it had a bluetooth option though.

Post by **rspi** » 25 Jul 2014, 21:32

I like the alarm features of the Ultra Gauge. I also like the Performance features on the ScanGauge II, like recording 1/4 mile times.

Post by **Ozark Lee** » 25 Jul 2014, 21:37

JimBee wrote:A gauge will be used mainly on my 5 speed manual so need to monitor trans temp. I like the idea of being able to set an alarm for engine temp and oil pressure.

My '94 M-56 doesn't have a transmission temp monitor, do the later models have one?

...Lee

Post by **JimBee** » 26 Jul 2014, 10:02

I'm not sure if 850's have the trans monitor. In a forum discussion on these devices, that seemed to be one feature some posters liked. I can see how it would be very useful, especially for driving a lot in hilly terrain or hauling a trailer over long distances. Robert might let us know if the 850's have this capability.

Post by **abscate** » 26 Jul 2014, 13:31

I think the poster meant "no need to monitor trans temp" given it is a manual....

Post by **PCars** » 29 Jul 2014, 01:00

The Scanquage II isn't bad. A stock 850 doesn't provide a great deal of mounting locations other than the instrument cluster for it but if you are willing to get creative, a good place could be found. I ended up modifying the area around the ashtray to fit it. The scanguage provides a good amount of monitors. I leave mine set to TPS%, Coolant Temp, Battery Voltage and Loop status. I tried to use the fuel/trip features but found them to be a bit cumbersome compared to the stock info center on the dash (I have a '96 Turbo, so I am a bit spoiled). Being able to read and clear codes on the fly is nice though. It also has the ability to change the backlighting on the display to a multitude of colors. I have been pretty happy with it. It's a bit dated but still a pretty good option.

That said, Ultra gauge looks to have way more features and expandability. It was designed in the USA but assembled in China and is much cheaper. It is only available through Ultraguage's website and limited channels, where as the scanguage II is available at most Autozones. I haven't used it myself but it does look to be at least a cosmetic improvement on the scanguage.

I haven't tried the Torque app but there is just something way too gimmicky about monitoring my ECU with my phone (I'm still getting used to it having internet). It also has many customizable features and can even upload ECU data to the web. You could post your car's performance on your Facebook wall! I come from an automotive service background and this just seems silly and would likely get made fun of. It also seems to be tailored more for performance than fuel economy.

The scan gauge would probably do very well for tracking your MPG, as long as you keep up with it. I haven't done it in a while but I do believe it requires a bit of information(fuel cost, gallons) every time you fill up. I like the scanguage. I had the option between it and the Ultraguage a few years ago. From what I read, the scanguage just felt like a more robust, tried and true option. It's probably going to come down to money in the end though because the Scanguage is much more expensive.