Coming back to the dash discussion, I am finding that keeping a traditional gauge cluster is something that is more work for 1) the data I want available and 2) with the way I use my Jeep.
Instead I decided to take a page from what works with Ultra4 race cars and I chose to go with an AiM digital dash.
Sure, it's ugly and not very "classic Jeep" looking which does bug me. But it can display any data that's available on the CANBUS or via additional sending units, it can do calculations right on the dash (for things like speed correction), I can selectively choose to display only relevant data, it's rugged, water resistant, works in hot and cold temperatures, boots in 3 seconds, autodims for night, and it's expandable if I need to add more data later or customize a view.
Talking with AiM and CANTrolls, it's sounding like for the AiM dash to fully understand the GM CANBUS I will need to have it custom programmed. In the end, I will be able to view all of these parameters on the dash:
- Engine RPM
- Vehicle speed
- Engine temp
- Voltage
- Engine oil pressure
- 6L80e transmission temp
- 6L80e current gear position (ie PRND654321)
- Odometer or engine hours (I'm still not positive how I want to deal with this.)
- Check engine light
- Vac/boost
If anyone else is interested in using the AiM dash with the custom GM CANBUS programming, let me know. Since I am paying for the custom programming I can resell the integration at a fraction of what I am paying (hopefully a win/win situation). As far as I'm aware, this will only work with the E38, LS3, and 6L80e.
---
Just a few more little updates. The Atlas sounds like it's been delayed by another week so I may not be seeing it until mid-September.
I added studs to my shopping list for connecting the Atlas adapter to the transmission.