Tag Archives: Gauges

Defi Advance CAN Driver Now Available!!!

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We made mention of this newest offering from Defi a few months ago, and finally they’re here!

Just a quick rundown of what it is and what type of customer this is applicable to:

It’s a plug & play kit for OBDII vehicles. Let’s say you want high precision gauges in your car (which of course Defi makes!!!), but the hassle of having to install each gauges (temperature and/or pressure) is too time consuming, or even costly (especially if you have a technician install them). The Advance CAN Driver is your type of system!!!

By using the included OBDII Harness Kit (comes with part number DF15601), you simply hook up to the On-Board Diagnostic port, then link whichever Advance Series of gauges using the Daisy Chain meter wire from the CAN Driver to the gauge (and each subsequent gauge; up to three gauges can be installed). All that’s left is where you plan on mounting the CAN Driver unit and your gauges!

Installing gauges this way not only simplifies the installation process, but it also takes advantage of pulling all the engine data from the ECU. Afterall, the issue with OE gauges isn’t that their sensors are faulty or too slow. They are, in fact, quite accurate and quick. The real issue lies with how quickly the gauges return this real-time data into something you can see. The response time for OE gauges, as most of us know, is relatively slow. Now, with Advance CAN Driver operating your Advance series gauges, you have a high precision and fast functioning gauge setup, and all it took was a couple of minutes to hook up and get going!

However, some readings aren’t readily accessible from the factory ECU, such as engine speed (RPM). So, in order to use Advance CAN driver for other parameters like engine temperatures or pressures, you can still use Advance CAN Driver. But to get engine speed, you will need to use Defi’s Advance Control Unit in conjunction with the Advance CAN Driver.

So far, we have two available kits:

Defi Advance CAN Driver
part number: DF15601

MSRP: $189

Includes: Advance CAN Driver Unit, OBDII Harness Kit, Adapter Wire, Power Source Wire, Speed & Tachometer Signal Wire, and a few small installation parts.

CAND_Meter_ZD

*does not include gauges faintly visible in the background.

 

Defi Advance CAN Driver + Advance BF 80mm Tachometer (White)

part number: DF15702

MSRP: $412

Includes: Advance CAN Driver, Advance BF 80mm Tachometer in White (11k rpm), Power Source Wire, and a few small installation parts.

set-BF80

Contact your nearest authorized TEIN dealer to order!

Defi CAN Driver Gauges

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Defi has created a new revolutionary line of gauges! This time, the gauge set is a much more simple installation for OBDII equipped (compatible with ISO-CAN) vehicles.

CAN-DRIVER resize

By using an OBD port harness, the Defi CAN Driver can link up to three gauges, and these gauges do not require the use or installation of sensors/sending units typically supplied with Defi gauges. In other words, you can now display factory engine parameters such as Boost, Intake Manifold Pressure, Tachometer, and/or Water Temperature.

This is the perfect compliment to many newer vehicles that don’t even display such parameters anymore. A lot of cars do away with water temperature readings and simply show you a cold or hot light. And yes, we still manufacture cars without tachometers (for cars that still use internal combustion engines).

CAN Driver was developed on the success of the Smart Adapter series, which is also capable of pulling all engine parameters from an OBDII port. The factory ECU is responsible for all engine function, so it isn’t as if the OE ECU is terrible. It’s the way engine vitals are being displayed on factory gauge clusters that is the biggest problem. As we’ve mentioned in previous Defi related posts, a lot of car manufacturers chose to use as affordable a gauge cluster as possible. That means sacrificing performance (and true readings) for a more aesthetically pleasing gauge display.

The obvious benefit of the CAN Display system is that you no longer have to locate a spot to install aftermarket sensors, or resort to aftermarket adapters like oil filter sandwich adapters, to make them fit properly. The factory sensors are more than adequate. The real problem is either your car doesn’t have these engine readings, or the readings are inaccurate, which many OEM gauge clusters have issues with. To have a properly functioning gauge to provide you with imporant engine vitals can be extremely important, especially to those that have modified their engine for more power. Not being able to monitor items such as pressures and temperatures can lead to detrimental engine failures. Best of all is that this is all plug and play. No need to solder any wiring (unless possibly you’re link the Advance Control Unit- the Control Unit may suggest soldering for power supply), and you can simply unplug all the components within a couple of minutes, if not less.

With the Defi CAN Driver setup, you will have real-time data of your engine’s vitals, and with the reknowned Defi precision and performance they’ve made their name on! Not to mention that Defi gauges give your car a great look!!!

cand_connect1e

The diagram below shows an Advance ZD (DF09701) unit installed. This is only possible by also installing the Advance Control Unit (DF07703) in conjunction with the CAN Driver. The use of Advance ZD is for customers that also want to obtain speedometer using Defi’s system. However, it is not necessary if you only plan to use CAN Driver to power one of the three gauges (Boost, Intake Manifold Pressure, Water Temperature, and/or Tachometer).

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There will be four available part numbers for the CAN Driver series:

DF15601- Defi CAN Driver (msrp $189)

DF15701- Defi CAN Driver + Advance BF 60mm Tachometer set (msrp $377; ***special order part number***)

DF15702- Defi CAN Driver + Advance BF 80mm Tachometer set (msrp $412)

DF15801- Defi CAN Driver + Advance A1 80mm Tachometer set (msrp $447)

 

From there you can add any of the following gauges: Boost, Intake Manifold Pressure, and/or Water Temperature.

For the upcoming new Advance A1 gauges, the applicable CAN Driver  gauge part numbers are:

DF14802 – 2 Bar Boost Gauge (msrp $215)

DF15302- Water Temperature (msrp $215)

 

 

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The new CAN Driver series is set to be released in the U.S. in limited supply by the beginning of Summer 2016!

 

 

Defi Advance A1 Gauges

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In an era of LCD and heads-up type displays that are now included in so many high-end cars, there’s still something about having a dial type gauge to get readings. Whatever it is, we just find it more attractive. Maybe it’s because it is just familiar. Defi has always been at the forefront when it comes to engine metering. Defi’s parent company, Nippon Seiki, is responsible for manufacturing many of the factory car gauge clusters. From simple analog gauges, which most cars still use, or LCD type readouts, or even the aforementioned heads-up displays (which Defi also makes), Defi/Nippon Seiki has been leading the way.

One issue is, as many of you in the performance world already know, factory gauge clusters tend to have quite a bit of lag, and many are not even calibrated properly (false readings). That’s mainly due to the budget constraints that car manufacturers give Nippon Seiki. A simple “good enough” gauge is what gets approved and is what ends up in our cars.

Defi, on the other hand, prides themselves in making highly responsive and accurate metering devices. The Defi marque is aimed towards high performance.  And, to the performance world, an accurately reading gauge an absolute necessity. Building your engine to produce more power can potentially produce more problems. You have to keep a much closer eye on your engine’s vitals to make sure everything is running correctly. Precise readings also aids in tuning your car properly. Precision is Defi’s aim, and they’ve consistently made that with every product since their inception.

New from Defi for 2016 is the Advance A1 line of gauges. Taking all the experience that Defi has to make a accurately reading gauge using their stepping motor technology and high quality sensors, the only thing left for Defi to do is make a highly attractive gauge.

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Using Defi’s Advance Control Unit, all gauges (up to 7 gauges) are linked using a daisy chain method which has a single meter cable from the control unit, then from one gauge to the next, and so on. This simplifies installation and also reduces the clutter typically associated with aftermarket gauges. All sensors (temperature, pressure, etc.) hook up to Advance Control Unit, which can be mounted anywhere within the car’s dash, further eliminating a clutter of wiring in your car’s interior. The Advance Control Unit is where end users can set all peaks and warnings, as well as illumination and sound settings.

daisy_chain_bfdaisy chain setup

 

The new Advance A1 line offers an ultra clean and modern look that will complement many late-model vehicles.

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Even the glass used to protect the gauge is something not seen before. It has very low reflective and glare properties, making it easy to read the gauge at multiple angles and even in direct sunlight.

Gauge illumination is in white, and even the needle is fully illuminated to provide clear view of engine vitals.

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Gauge facing has a machined look with gray outer portion and black center. As with all gauges in the Advance series, peak/warning lights are fitted within the bezel and only visible when programmed peaks and warnings are reached.

Audible warning can also be set for each gauge. For example, if water temp reaches past your programmed peak, the Water Temperature gauge will emit an audible buzz to inform you.

Available in Boost (Bar), Water & Oil Temperature (Celsius), Fuel & Oil Pressure (Bar), Exhaust Gas Temperature (Celsius), and also in a Tachometer.

Part numbers and MSRP as follows:

DF14801- Boost 2 Bar ($304)

DF14901- Boost 3 Bar ($338)

DF15001- Oil Pressure ($349)

DF15101- Fuel Pressure ($349)

DF15201- Oil Temperature ($271)

DF15301- Water Temperature ($271)

DF15401- Exhaust Gas Temperature ($349)

DF15501- Tachometer 11,000 RPM ($282)

The new Advance A1 line will be available in limited quantities by late May/early April!

 

A Cleverly Mounted Defi Advance ZD!!

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Not too long ago, we were contacted by Mike Bratcher of Riseful. He was really interested in Defi’s Advance ZD unit as a solution for metering his engine without the clutter of gauge dials mounted on and around his dash.

He later followed up with us, wanting to order more Advance ZD units, and it seemed that it was because of his unique mounting solution on his NSX that it generated some buzz.

As mentioned earlier, Mike wanted to eliminate a cluster of gauges on his dash, preferring to keep with his car’s subtle interior design cues. His solution? Mounting the Advance ZD where the stereo screen. This of course meant the removal of his stereo screen, but since his died out, it made a perfect location for his custom mounting idea.

Here are some pictures that Mr. Bratcher shared on NSXprime.com:

 

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A very well excecuted job, Mr. Bratcher!!!

Interested in mouting your Advance ZD in similar fashion? Mr. Bratched seems to have documented this installation pretty well on NSXprime. Check out his post!

 

 

 

 

Defi Advance BF USDM Gauges Soon to Arrive!

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We’ve already mentioned about the new Defi Advance BF USDM gauges. Now we just wait in anticipation for their arrival on the U.S. shore!

Once again, these gauges differ from the current Advance BF by having readouts in PSI for pressure gauges and Fahrenheit for temperature gauges.  You no longer have to attempt converting over metric gauge readings in your head, like some of us had to do!

Current ETA is early January 2014.

We highly suggest you contact your nearest authorized TEIN dealer and get your Defi Advance BF USDM gauges ordered now!

bf usdm bmw (Custom)

New Defi Gauge Options

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Attention Defi Fans!! Defi has released two lines of gauges for those looking for something a little outside of the box.

DEFI RS.C2 (Small)

The first of the two is the Defi Advance C2 gauge series. Now I know that most of you are going to  say “Why in Pink?,” but give them a chance as they aren’t bad looking! They actually look quite nice! These gauges require the use of the Advance Control Unit similar to the Advance BF and Advance CR series and,  as detailed,  come in a Pink color or a Blue color for the trim. The needle and bezel are a retro silver color, which accents the gauges really well and work with the numbers which light up a bright white. These gauges are only offered in Boost, Manifold Pressure, Oil Pressure, Fuel Pressure, Oil Temperature, Water Temperature, Exhaust Temperature, and Tachometer in 9000 and 11000 RPM.

DEFI C2

DEFI C2 Pricelist.REV

 The second gauge is more of a nostalgic throwback with the Defi RS gauges. I’ll be honest with everyone, these gauges are extremely good looking, as some of you may already know, I am partial to old school cars. A lot of older Japanese vehicles have Nippon Seiki’s “NS” logo on the OE cluster to which these gauges also had it placed on the face. The colors offered are the same as many of the old school cars did, in that classic green color and the classic white that is interchangable (one gauge = 2 different color options). These gauges also require the use of the Advance Control Unit and would be offered in  Boost, Manifold Pressure, Oil Pressure, Fuel Pressure, Oil Temperature, Water Temperature, and Exhaust Temperature. An 80mm Tachometer is currently in development, but also expected to be released in the near future.

DEFI RS

DEFI RS Pricelist.REV

 

Both gauges are currently on a Special Order type basis and can be purchased through any TEIN Authorized Dealer. However, these gauges may not be around for too long, as Defi decided to have limited production manufacturing of both gauges. The C2 gauge manufacturing would be ending in June of 2014 and the manufacturing of the RS gauges would be ending in February 2015. If any of these gauges do catch your eye, I recommend taking advantage of these gauges while supplies last.

NEW LIMITED OFFER, DEFI TRIPLE METER PACKAGE

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The Triple Meter Package consists of packages of turbo, oil pressure, oil temperature gauges(ADVANCE CR or ADVANCE BF) and ADVANCE Control Unit.

DF12201 DF ADVANCE CR 60 TRIPLE METER SET WHITE
DF12202 DF ADVANCE CR 60 TRIPLE METER SET BLACK
DF12301 DF ADVANCE BF 60 TRIPLE METER SET WHITE
DF12302 DF ADVANCE BF 60 TRIPLE METER SET RED
DF12303 DF ADVANCE BF 60 TRIPLE METER SET BLUE

There are 5 types of set, CR white, CR black, BF white, BF amber red, and BF blue.

The gauge diameters are 60mm and the turbo gauges are 200kPa models.

Retail Cost for the CR Models is $980

Retail Cost for the BF Models is $1065

If everything were to be purchased separately for the Advance BF models the cost is $1102.

If everything were to be purchased separately for the Advance CR models the cost is $1028.

Remember this is only for a limited time. Limited quantity will be released.

Hurry and order yours today!

 

Gauges, Gauges, ZD

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Gone are the days when our gauge clusters were filled with gauges of this and gauges of that to tell you every little thing going on with the engine.

Just looking at the clusters of my old AW11 MR2 & FC RX7 I got the basic gist of what was going on underneath the hood.


(Pictured: Gauge clusters of cars from the 80’s that tell me more than most modern cars)

But, I’ve since moved onto newer cars, the most recent of which is the Evo X.
Now don’t get me wrong I think the car is great, it does everything that I need it to do.
However, I have no idea what’s going on with my engine, and I’ll probably never know until it’s a little too late.

Nowadays in order to keep up with the times and the styling of the times a lot of the gauges we used to have have been thrown out the window by the manufacturers; and instead we now have simplicity, we have more aesthetically pleasing “gauges” that require little to no effort to decipher. Blue means cold, red means hot, no bars and that blinking light that looks like a gas pump means go get gas now, and full bars means you have a full tank.

(Pictured: Go Get Gas Now)

That’s all great and such, until you start maintaining and modifying your own car; subsequently walking that thin line of paranoia.
And everyone who does work on their own car, knows that paranoia of driving down the street, suddenly hearing a clunk and wondering “Did my _________ just fall off/break?!”; or wondering if that smell of burning motor oil is coming from your car because you didn’t do your oil change properly and you have no way of knowing since you don’t have an oil pressure gauge, or maybe it’s just that old clunker puttering down the road in front of you.

For the former I can’t help you out, but for the latter there is a solution.
Defi Gauges, made to monitor all sorts of things that go on underneath your hood.

Now I know gauges have been covered many times, but maybe, just like me, you don’t want your entire dash and A-pillar bombarded with gauges.
So, I present to you the Advance ZD.
The ZD is a multi-gauge, in a small OLED display it can tell you a whole lot about your car without taking up a whole lot of space.

I recently installed it into my Evo X because I wanted to know the Oil Pressure & Temperature and a precise Water Temperature without the clutter.


(Pictured: No clutter)

You’ll notice that the majority of my Tach is covered by a Boost Gauge (installed because the one thing that the ZD cannot display is boost), but not to worry because the ZD also has a Tach option and there’s a Sequential Indicator consisting of 8 LEDs along the top of the display that are synced with the engine rpm and now one LED lights up every 500RPM I go passed 3000RPM.

The only part of installing the ZD that I dreaded was the tearing apart of my dash to route the wires.


(Pictured: A new car owner’s nightmare)

For those that want to add other things to monitor such as Exhaust Temperature and Fuel Pressure, they too can be monitored on the ZD.

If you want to save some money look into the ADVANCE ZD SPORT PACKAGE. That will get you started in the right direction.

So far the ZD has given me great peace of mind.
Now when I pull up to a stop and smell burning motor oil I can look at the ZD and see that I’m not losing oil pressure, then I can look over and think to myself that the owner of that old clunker needs to fix those oil leaks.

*JUST RELEASED* DEFI Advance BF

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TEIN USA is the exclusive North America Distributor for the DEFI brand of products. We just received our first shipment of the new DEFI Advance BF line of gauges. These units replace the current Link BF line which has already stopped production.



The Advance BF meters still feature the blacked out lens and come in 60mm Metric readout. Available colors now include blue alongside the popular amber and white. Advance BF feature more LEDs for a brighter and more vibrant display which make them easier to see in daylight. The lens is now flat which improves the visibility at any angle, and DEFI has increased the number of increment markings (ticks). Other features include warning set, peak hold, record, playback, dimmer, and audio-able warning.

The new advance series replaces the popular Link BF series. The new Advance series features a wired remote for the control unit, more durable plugs and a host of features.

DEFI’s Advance series is the evolution of the Link Series. They will be releasing new compatible products in the near future which will now be available for use with the Advance  series control unit. If your looking to purchase a set of accurate and reliable gauges to protect the investments made into your power-train, you should definitely consider the DEFI Advance series.

If a blacked out face is not what your looking for. The Advance CR series is also available in 52mm and 60mm Metric readouts which are available in traditional white or black face.

Visit DEFI’s US webpage for more details. Defi products can be purchased through any TEIN Authorized Dealer. You can find a link of all dealers HERE.