Can I add a tach? How?

[dieselcrawler]

I'd like to add a tach to my E-350 van... no factory tach, is there somewhere to pick up the signal, and a gauge that would read it? Any ideas?
Thanks...

[6LCummins]

Autometer has a Diesel tach that runs off your alternator. I have one on my truck and it is pretty accurate as long as your belt doesnt slip. I would recommend gettin ahold of Raul at Stealth Automotive, he can set you up with a really good price and has great customer service. This is the tach i have in my truck, Auto Meter . but here is a link to the three diesel tachs Autometer offers Auto Meter

[dieselcrawler]

I was wondering if there was a way to pick up the signal from the stock wiring harness... as in, where would the factory gauge get it's signal from, and can it be read by an aftermarket gauge? If so, how, and what gauge would work?

I've heard of the ones that use a signal from the alt, but am courious about other options... How hard is it to calibrate the type that use the alt sending unit?

Thanks...

[6LCummins]

not really hard, just need a way to read RPM, a digital hand held tach will work, and a tiny screw driver to dial in the tach. Took us maybe 5 min to dial it in.

[dieselcrawler]

Anyone know of any other options? If the vehicle doesn't have a factory tach, does the wiring harnes even have the right wires and sending units in place? Or is it thru the PCM? I know a couple of you guys are ford factory techs who work on these trucks daily, any input on this?

Thanks...

[01manualvan]

i think the tach signal comes from pin 19 on the pcm. a factory wiring diagam will help you for this. if you compare the e series to the f series you will see that they very similar.