Adding Or Replacing Gauge

An effective and safe pump program includes having a functioning (and accurate) vacuum pressure gauge. A gauge allows the user to pump at the desired pressure on a consistent basis. If your pump gear does not have a gauge, or the gauge is not working, experienced pumpers strongly recommend that a working gauge be added.

Some pumpers are unsure of how to insert a gauge into their gear, or where to find the parts. Other threads have covered parts of the same material, but I thought I’d include it all in one location. Everything needed can be sourced at your local hardware store or big box store, although for this exercise I am referencing Amazon.

A very easy option to add a gauge is to cut the hose between tube/cylinder and the pump. The gauge is connected into a brass tee which is then plugged into the hose. The barb on the tee need to be sized to match the hose, which is often 1/4”.

ThoughtfulGold showed a picture of this set up here:
Vacuum Pressure Gauge?

Vacuum Pressure Gauge (must read vacuum, not just any pressure gauge works):
https://www.ama … /dp/B00VQSP1BS/

Hose barbs and tee (this package has 2 tees):
https://www.ama … /dp/B07BXDHRQG/

And for easy reference, here is a typical pistol type brake bleeder vacuum pump:
https://www.ama … /dp/B00NP60URE/

Teflon tape is also recommended for the thread on the pressure gauge to prevent leaking. This is typically $1 for a single roll at the local store, or:
https://www.ama … /dp/B002N5LE28/

Here’s a similar thread Sta-Kool previously started:

Coastalcamper - Air and/or Water Pump Set-Up: $64.17

….and another similar thread for our EU members:

Adding a gauge to my pump

Guess I need to do a better job using the search function.