PROUDLY DESIGNED AND BUILT IN THE USA & BACKED BY OUR 5 YEAR WARRANTY
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS (F.A.Q.) PAGE- THIS PAGE IS CURRENTLY UNDER CONSTRUCTION!!
REAL QUESTIONS FROM REAL CUSTOMERS!
Click the links below to jump to the section or you can scroll through.
TEMPERATURE AND PRESSURE GAUGES
TROUBLESHOOTING (LINK TO PAGE)
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Where Y'all Located? Are these really Made in the USA?
We are located off of 8 Mile Rd about 1 mile west of Woodward Ave. Our gauges are better than Made in USA, they are MADE IN DETROIT!
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Which style do I choose and how do I know what will look best? Its really up to your personal preference but there are a few things that can help you decide. Interior/exterior colors, modern vs throwback; those are good places to start. All of our gauges and kits use the same technology behind the scenes so its really just a matter of choosing what you like the looks of best. We also have a good video describing each style and what makes them special. You can watch this video RIGHT HERE>>> |
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If I disconnect the battery, will I lose all my settings? |
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What engines and transmissions can I use NVU gauges on? Where can I get one of those BIM boxes? BLOG: HOW TO INTEGRATE WITH GM LS PCMS VIDEO: HOW TO INSTALL SENDERS IN AN LS ENGINE VIDEO: HOW TO RUN NVU GAUGES ON HOLLEY TERMINATOR VIDEO: HOW TO USE NVU SPEEDOMETERS WITH HOLLEY TERMINATOR X-MAX VIDEO: HOW TO PICK UP TACHOMETER SIGNALS BLOG: HOW TO CONNECT TACHOMETERS BLOG: HOW TO PREVENT EMI AND WHAT MAKES ELECTRONICS LIKE OLED SCREENS GO CRAZY |
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Hey, you forgot my blinkers!! No we didn't, they're in there! All NVU Phoenix and Direct-Drive gauges with OLED screens have 3 indicators built into the circuit board. ALL of the dials that are used for these have dead fronted (Invisible when off) indicators. Each lamp requires 12v + DC to activate. Refer to your wiring diagram for each wire color to illuminate the lamps. Check out our WHATS IN THE BOX VIDEO to see how the indicators look/work
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I need some light bulbs for the back of my gauges!! No, you don't! The 2-1/16" gauges have integrated LED lighting, no extra bulbs needed. The "bulb" hole is used for some of our commercial and defense customers, and it makes a great place to stick the direct drive plug in so it doesn't get stuck in the shipping box. Check out our WHATS IN THE BOX VIDEO to see how the lights work. |
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How hard are these things to wire up and install? Can I hndle this myself or should I have a sho do it? NVU gauges are by far the easiest in the industry. Our Phoenix Direct-drive system simplifies wiring by 75% over a traditional gauge kit and eliminates the additional boxes, modules and drivers other bands require. Please review the information below, check out our install videos and decide for yourself- If you can install a radio you can install NVU gauges!
You can check out our Direct-Drive features page for all the details RIGHT HERE>>> Wiring can be made even easier with our exclusive SNAP-ADAPT plug-and play connectors, take a look RIGHT HERE TO LEARN MORE>>>
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I’d like to display some extra information in my instrument system, but I don’t want to add a bunch of extra gauges, is that possible? YES!!! In addition to displaying more information on the OLED screens, you don't even need any additional boxes or modules!! Check out the Phoenix features RIGHT HERE>>>
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What size wire do I need to use for the instrument cluster installation? We use 18 GA TXL wire in our harnesses and recommend using the same when at all possible. 20 ga is also acceptable. |
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What the heck are these black buttons for? The programming buttons are used to set up your speedometer and tachometer with OLED screens. They are required to cycle through the menus and input the various settings as well as use the advanced features like set-able odometer, performance timers and shift alerts. We have these as separate items to not obstruct the gauge designs for a clean look. We have a YouTube video all about the buttons for you RIGHT HERE>>> |
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Where am I supposed to put these buttons? You can install them wherever you like when building your custom gauge package. Some like to hide them under the dash while others drill through the panel for easy access. We have a YouTube video all about the buttons for you RIGHT HERE>>> |
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What is included in the instrument system package? All our kits include mounting hardware, (direct-fit brackets where applicable), wiring harnesses (temp and pressure senders on kits), instructions, bushing kit and programming buttons. CHECK OUT OUR WHATS IN THE BOX VIDEO RIGHT HERE>>>
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How can I change the brightness of the gauges at night? We recommend using our LED dimmer if needed to reduce the brightness. You can check it out RIGHT HERE>>>
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If my direct fit has factory location turn signals, how do I wire them up since the gauges have built in indicators? You can use the factory-location indicators and turn signals (where if applicable) if you like AND/OR use the indicators/turn signals in the gauges-- Its all up to you when building YOUR CUSTOM gauge kit. The LEDs with flyleads require a ground and 12V+ to operate, simply wire them up as needed to the appropriate source and you're in business!
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Can I purchase your direct-fit mounting solutions separately?
Unfortunately, our mounting solutions are not available separately from the gauge kits. If you are looking for a specific type of gauge or style-let us know and we can help you out!
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Can I customize my gauges?
YES!! There are a few levels of customization available:
STANDARD CUSTOM KIT: Bu using our off-the-shelf kits you can choose the styles and functions that fit your ride best-- YOU can choose how and where the gauges are installed, in what order and which features YOU want to active.
DIY CUSTOM STUDIO: NVU's exclusive Design It Yourself gauge studio allows YOU to choose colors, lighting finished and MORE all right in front of your eyes. CHECK IT OUT RIGHT HERE>>>
IN-HOUSE FULL-CUSTOM PROJECT: We can develop just about anything you like, the biggest trick is knowing what YOU want! Check out our in-house custom options RIGHT HERE>>>
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Do your gauges work with aftermarket wiring systems like American Autowire or Painless wiring? How about the stock wiring?
Wires are wires! As far as NVU gauges go, as long as you know which wire is which, no problem! A good diagram, test light and a multimeter will get you there. Here is a great video on how to figure out wiring up gauges WITHOUT A WIRING DIAGRAM RIGHT HERE>>> If you have the stock cluster plug still intact, use our SNAP-ADAPT Plug and play connector for the easiest install ever.
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How long is the warranty?
NVU offers a 5- year warranty, read all the details RIGHT HERE>>>
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Can I change the color by changing my lightbulbs in my NVU gauges?
All NVU gauges have integrated white LED lighting. The backlighting on backlit gauges is achieved vis the printing process. If you would like to change the color lighting, we have a couple of options for you:
All of our 5 and 6 gauge Direct-drive kits have the opportunity for YOU to be the designer and use our DIY gauge studio, it all happens right in front of your eyes! CHECK IT OUT RIGHT HERE>>>
We can develop just about anything you like, the biggest trick is knowing what YOU want! Check out our in-house custom options RIGHT HERE>>>
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Is there a ballpark time in labor hours? I am having a shop install and trying to figure out install costs.
First things first, its best to have a little knowledge of what you or your shop my be getting into. That will make things more clear you your and your shop. NVU gauges are by far the easiest in the industry. Our Phoenix Direct-drive system simplifies wiring by 75% over a traditional gauge kit and eliminates the additional boxes, modules and drivers other bands require
Please review the information below, check out our install videos and decide for yourself- If you can install a radio, you can install NVU gauges!
You can check out our Direct-Drive features page for all the details RIGHT HERE>>>
Wiring can be made even easier with our exclusive SNAP-ADAPT plug-and play connectors, take a look RIGHT HERE TO LEARN MORE>>>
We also have a couple of complete, every step of the process videos available. they are a little long but after watching there are NO SUPRISES:
Realistic time? It will vary based on the kit and how many gauges, the willingness of the shop to read the instructions and their ability. We say 3-6 hours would be the range. if someone starts quoting 7-12 hours RUN AWAY!
We also STRONGLY RECCOMEND that during the installation, if the shop has ANY questions, they reach out to us directly. You are having them do the install for a reason- if they are asking you to ask us to tell you to tell them, well that just never goes very well.
We also recommend not accepting an incomplete installation-- all of your gauges should work properly, including fuel, speedometer and tachometer-- if a shop is telling you they can't set them up for liability or other reasons- RUN AWAY!
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What if I need help during installation?
Contact us directly! We have been doing this for over 20 years and have seen it all! Its easiest if you know your vehicle make, model and the part number you have, the part number is on the barcoded label on the box and on your customer care card. Do not contact the retailer, they will not have any idea of what to do during installation or what individual components are in the box.
To contact us we have several methods:
Go to our CONTACT US PAGE RIGHT HERE>>>
Via email: service@newvintageusa.com
Phone: 248-850-5482 OPTION 1
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Do you have any troubleshooting or help pages that I can use in case I have questions after hours?
We have quite a few resources to help you in the event that our team is not available (late nights, holidays, etc). We know that sometimes that's the only time you have so we have been doing our best to add more and more help pages and videos so that you can keep moving on your build.
We have a great Online troubleshooting Page that has most of the common questions about installations and things that may come up CLICK HERE TO CHECK IT OUT >>>
Our tech videos page has many how-to videos that will defiantly help CLICK HERE>>>
Lastly, make sure to look through the instruction books for the gauges and the brackets. Yes, it sounds simple but most of the details are in there. In the event that you lost your books, each part number has a link to all of the instructions on its individual page so you can find them easier.
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What if I change my mind after ordering? What if I ordered the wrong item?
We understand that life throws us a curveball sometimes. Maybe priorities have changed, vehicle is sold, changed the interior color, etc... No problem, we generally accept returns in 15 days after purchase.
If you purchased your kit directly through NVU online or on the phone, just CONTACT US HERE so that we can start the process.
If your kit was purchased at a retailer, you will have to contact them for the return, we do not have your payment information so there's no way for us to issue a refund back to you. Your retailer will be more than happy to accept the return.
In the event that you ordered the wrong item either directly through NVU or the retailer: We can do an exchange for the equal value item, no problem! Wrong color, changed you mind on the color? Ordered the wrong year? Needed a diesel instead of a gas tach? Not an issue just CONATCT US and we can help you sort it out.
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Do I need to register my purchase for the warranty to be valid?
No need to register but we may ask for some information to validate the warranty. All you need to do is hold on to your Custmer Care Card. It is the 4x6 card that came in the top of your gauge kit box. It has all of the information we need to help you with your gauges. Things like part and batch number are on there so we will know EXACTLY what you have, when it was made and where it was purchased from.
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You don't have a direct-fit kit for my vehicle, what am I supposed to do now?
In about the last 10-15 years the direct-fit kits started to get really popular as the industry went from Street Rods with billet panels to more modern dashes. Back in the day we used to just make the parts fit by building panels out of ABS, aluminum, wood, whatever we had laying around. There are a few options out there for non-mainstream vehicles without the support of a square body truck or G-Body GM car.
OPTION 1: Start making stuff! Hey, you built the engine, did the bodywork now what's the holdup on just making a little ol' panel?
OPTION 2: There are some companies like Classic Dash, Florida 5.0 and MP Products building replacement panels to accept aftermarket gauges. These panels all look pretty good BUT you are going to have to do a little bit of fitment and finishing. What's the big deal? That's the FUN part, making something totally custom that will set your dash off right, like no other! A little vinyl or paint goes a long way!
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How do you compare to other brands, this is the first time hearing of NVU?
We offer a full range of instruments from speedometers and fuel gauges to EGT and boost. All available in individual, kits and direct-fit packages. Our exclusive PHOENIX / DIRECT-DRIVE system put NVU over the top, check out all of the great features RIGHT HERE>>> on our Direct-drive features page. Don't forget our entire product line is the same hard parts and platform we use for our defense, Commercial, simulator and commercial customers.
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What features make these so fancy? All NVU Phoenix kits are powered by the legendary Phoenix Direct-Drive platform, built on 20 years of OE and aftermarket expertise. This innovative system redefines how instruments are wired and used, bringing modern features to a standalone gauge kit that you wouldn't typically expect. Enjoy high-end capabilities such as a settable odometer, built-in turn signals and indicators, performance timers, shift alerts, and up to 3 auxiliary inputs—no extra drivers, boxes, or modules required! Coupled with the exclusive Direct-Drive wiring system, installation time is reduced by up to 75% compared to traditional gauge setups, eliminating mistakes and saving you from headaches. Simply wire the speedo and tach by color, plug in the minor gauges, and you’re all set—installation has never been easier! Learn more about all of the features HERE>>>
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Do you offer a shift indicator? Mine is not retained on the new dash.
NVU Phoenix Platform gauges incorporate a sequential shift alert that signals shifting at 1,000 RPM, 500 RPM and at the shift point on our high-contrast OLED screen.
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Are your gauges waterproof? I want to run them in an open top vehicle.
NVU gauges are waterproof from the front up to 35 PSI. this is a specification required by our Defense, commercial and marine customers and you receive the benefit! Perfect for an open vehicle that might have the top down "by mistake".
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Do Y'all have a GPS speed-o-meter? Of course we do, our GPS sender is one of our top selling add-ons. Easy to use and works great: GPS SPEED SENDER
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Can I set my odometer mileage to match my current odometer? YES! You can set it to whatever you like within the first 100 miles. |
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How do I calibrate the speedometer (AUTOCAL)? It’s super easy! Just follow along in your booklet and you can ALSO WATCH THIS VIDEO HERE>>> |
| When calibrating the Speedometer, AUTOCAL states to drive 1 mile, however my gauges were built in a metric configuration (KPH), how far do I drive? 1 Kilometer will be driven to in the AUTOCAL mode. |
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How do I connect my tachometer and set up for GM LS computer? All GM PCMs output a 4-cylinder, open collector signal. See the documentation in our PHOENIX BIG BOOK pages 11-12-1/2: 1. Set the tachometer DIP-switch #5 to on. This will turn on the internal pull-up resistor. 2. Run the violet wire on the tach to your PCM tach output. 3. Set the tachometer to 4 cylinders. |
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Where do I pick up the tach signal for my coil or MSD Box? Make sure to check out page 12-1/2 in your booklet. It describes the hook-up and filter settings for each application. We also have a really good tech article RIGHT HERE >>>> and a tachometer installation VIDEO HERE>>> In general here are some guidelines: Coil: Negative side of the coil HEI: TACH SIG terminal on the side of the cap "MSD" boxes: DO NOT CONNECT TO THE COIL!!! These have a clean tach output terminal or wire on all of them. Sniper or other EFI system: DO NOT CONNECT TO THE COIL!!! These have a clean tach output terminal or wire on all of them. GM LS PCM: See above steps |
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Can I change the speed of my tachometer pointer? YES!! We have a street and sport mode, just check out this video HERE>>> |
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How do I hook up a diesel tach? Our diesel tachometers are built from our commercial, military and marine applications for rugged use. USE THE ORANGE WIRE ON THE TACHOMETER! For all of the details on our diesel tachometer check out THIS PAGE HERE with details, instructions and videos!
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How do I set the fuel gauge? On the back of the driver gauge for the fuel level (speedometer on direct-drive, tach on 3-1, and quad gauge on quad kits) remove the plastic DIP switch cover and set to the appropriate setting. The 5th DIP switch has no effect on fuel input. Use the chart below to set the gauge. This chart is also listed in your BIG BOOK. Additional ranges are also included for late model GM and Chrysler vehciles (listed in the direct fit books). All of our direct-fit kits ship with the appropriate configuration for the factory tank.
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Will the fuel gauge move all over the place while driving? No, all NVU stepper motor gauges are electronically dampened to prevent fuel slosh issues. |
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Can I use my stock Oil Pressure and Water Temp sender, or “T” into these wires to share with the computer? No, you must use the senders included in the kit. The gauges and computers require their own sensors to operate properly. Here is a link to how to install senders in the LS engine RIGHT HERE>>>
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I have a Small Block Chevy and the oil pressure sender doesn’t fit, do I need a different sender? Sometimes you may require a 45- or 90-degree elbow; this depends on the distributor type and size. We just usually run up to the auto parts or hardware store and grab some brass or black pipe with 1/8-27 NPT threads. REMEMBER: Do not use Teflon tape, only use liquid sealant on sender threads.
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Do I need to bleed my cooling system in my car after installing my Temp Sender? Depending on your application you may or may not need to, but we recommend at least running the engine and letting the thermostat open fully several times and then refilling the radiator and/or overflow tank as needed. |
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Is there a way to make my Direct-Drive wires longer? I need to place a gauge farther away. YES! We have our Direct-Drive extension harness that is perfect for placing the 2-1/16" gauges in a console or farther over on the dash, check them out RIGHT HERE>>>
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