Dear friends
This forum has being a life saver for me and it is always nice to try to contribute a bit back.
A few months ago when I decided to install a water temperature gauge in my I/S, I didn't find any article with lots of photos explaining what is needed to do the job.
I documented the process with lots of photos here:
https://plus.google.com/+AdenilsonCavalcanti/posts/T9tu9rzGNCwDisclaimer: not saying this is the best way of doing the job (probably there are better ways), but it is simple enough and works pretty fine.
Concerning the parts used:
a) Auto Meter 3337 Sport-Comp gauge (the dark background and font style was the closest match I found compared to the I/S dashboard gauges):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00062YX5U/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1b) Dewel radiator hose sensor adapter (30mm):
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B018FY0TCG/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1c) The mount I used a GPS mount for handlebar + an autometer pod:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B000CRF46G/ref=oh_aui_search_detailpage?ie=UTF8&psc=1The only inconvenient of this Autometer gauge is that it won't come with the wiring needed (power + sensor), so I ended up making the wiring myself (required a soldering iron, etc).
Heat shrinking tubing is recommended to route the wiring (positive, ground, sensor) all the way to the hose adapter.
I used wires in 3 colors:
a) Red for positive
b) Black for negative
c) Blue for sensor
AFAICT, there are more expensive models that include the wiring, so it may be worthwhile to consider (the combined cost of buying the wiring, soldering iron, etc is probably bigger than paying for it included with the gauge).
I tapped into the fog lights wiring to power the gauge, by using a quick splice connector. I figured that won't be enough to overload the wiring, as it was designed for the 35W + 35W fog lights (and the I/S kit includes a relay IIRC).
The sensor ground wire was connected into the engine guards.
Final remarks: is it worth the trouble? That depends... having further instrumentation is helpful if you have to diagnose problems. I did it because I was from time to time having the overheat light going on, but that was because the radiator fan was not working.
That being said, it is pretty cool to watch in the gauge the temperature going up to 210F and see the fan engaging and bringing the temperature down.
Finally, our bikes are getting 13 to 19 years old and electronics/thermal sensors can start to go bad. Having a new and high quality water temperature gauge can bring peace of mind to know that the engine is running fine and not overheating.
Last consideration: don't go cheap in the gauge. There are cheaper gauges made in China, but keep in mind that the motorcycle environment is harsh (i.e. vibration) and you won't like to have to try the figure it out why things are not working after the install. I really recommend Autometer as they are made in USA and are known for being reliable and lasting years.
