Because each installation is different, sending units and LEDs are not included with the purchase of an individual gauge and must be purchased separately.

Which sender do I need?

You have the choice of many VDO senders for this gauge, however we only sell one. We offer an 1/8" NPT sender for this gauge. Typically there is no plug & play location to install a water temp sender in VWs and most modern imports. 1/8" NPT fits basically all aftermarket adaptors and is easily tapped into existing coolant fittings.

For more information regarding specific sending unit placements please visit our Tech Corner

250°F Water Temp Sender 1/8" NPT

Which LED do I need?

This gauge includes a white 194 light bulb. For the ultimate in visibility and color we recommend the use of a 194 LED. We offer a variety of LED options for this gauge including basic 194 wedge style LEDs, high intensity LEDs, and perfect match LEDs.

194 Wedge Style LEDs
Basic 194 wedge style LEDs are a great way to light a VDO vision series gauge. We have them available in 6 colors. Priced at $3 per LED, these LEDs provide an affordable and bright color change.

High Intensity 194 Wedge Style LEDs
Our new high intensity LEDs are the ultimate in brightness. When installed in a VDO vision series gauge these LEDs provide illumination which typically exceeds the brightness of most OEM gauge clusters. These LEDs are available in 5 colors and are priced at $8 per LED.

Perfect Match LEDs
Our perfect match LED system provides a perfect match to the OEM VW mk4 instrument cluster. The LED consists of a grouping of 9 LEDs exactly matching the wavelength of the stock cluster built into a custom base and lens. To drive this LED our power regulator is required to regulate voltage and current. When installed in a VDO vision series gauge a OEM color match is achieved. VDO perfect match LEDs are priced at $15 and the required power regulator is priced at $15.

194 Wedge Style LEDs
High Intensity 194 LEDs
Perfect Match LEDs

Recommended Electrical Accessories

We also offer a number of electrical accessories not included in the basic wiring kit. We have everything from crimpers to fuse boxes. For this gauge we recommend:

Scotchloks or T-Taps
Mini Inline Fuse Holder
Mini Fuse Add-A-Circuit

You May Also Need:
This gauge uses VDO's spin-lok mounting system. In some gauge mounts these spin-lok nuts simply will not fit. For these applications we recommend a stud mounting kit. VDO's stud mounting kit includes two threaded studs, two nuts and a U-bracket. In many gauge mounts, such as our VW mk4 triple gauge panels, stud mounting kits are a necessity.

2 1/16" Stud Mounting Kit

Installation Instructions
Installation instructions are included with any gauge purchase from 42. They are also available online for your convenience. Please visit our tech page for installation instructions pertaining to this gauge and your specific car. Also, check out our FAQ for common questions regarding VDO gauges and installation.

Tech Corner
FAQ