Air Fuel Ratio Gauge Kits & Accessories

A wideband air fuel gauge is a digital air fuel ratio monitoring system or instrument that provides a measurement of the ratio of air to fuel in an engine to within a hundredth of a point (for example "14.65"). This is an improvement in technology over the narrow band gauges that only display an approximation of the air fuel ratio due to their analog design. A wideband air fuel gauge displays this measurement from data collected from the oxygen sensor. The ideal gasoline air fuel mixture is approximately 14.7:1 (14.7 grams of air to 1 gram of fuel), with a lower ratio indicating a richer mixture, and a higher ratio showing a leaner mixture. Different fuels require different ratios to operate at optimum performance. A portable air fuel ratio meter is another option and helps to provide a quick reading of the air/fuel ratio and can be temporarily hooked up.

To install an AFR gauge, first decide a suitable place to mount it, whether in the dash itself or with the help of a bracket or pod that allows it to be mounted above or below the dash. Then install the gauge with the wiring in a position where you can easily connect it. Next, with the included instructions, wire up the gauge. Finally, with the gauge firmly installed and the wiring correctly connected, start the engine to confirm it is operating. Installation is then complete. Some manufacturers use O2 sensors that require routine resetting by removing the sensor and waving it in the air to read atmospheric levels of oxygen to keep the system calibrated. However, most do not require this.

Depending on the brand and type, the wiring of the AFR gauge kit will vary. However, there will be a connection to the oxygen sensor, as well as a black wire for ground and a red wire, which is for 12 volt switched power (only powers on when key is in ignition and on). The gauge instructions will explain where any additional wires will connect.

A wideband air fuel ratio gauge will provide a digital number indicating the air/fuel mixture ratio. Automotive engines have three primary areas of operation, which include idle/cruise, wide-open throttle, and fuel cut-off. On gasoline engines, the ideal wide-open throttle is typically around a ratio of 10.5:1; with idle/cruise at 14.7, and fuel cut-off at 20:1. Tuning an engine to improve the air/fuel ratio to improve horsepower or fuel mileage at these areas of operation requires careful planning and work as engine damage can result from the wrong ratio.

A JEGS expert is ready to answer your questions and help you find the wideband air fuel ratio gauge kit, or air fuel ratio accessories that you require for your specific application.