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UltraGauge
After a long time procrastinating about ordering an UltraGauge, ours arrived the other day.  I read that 60+ page manual twice and selected the gauges I’d like to use.  This afternoon I plan to configure the UltraGauge with the help of one of our Elder/Experienced LDOF Members. 

I know it’s silly to get so excited about something so mundane, but it’s going to be very satisfying to have some additional information about the condition of our LD as we travel here & there.

Once again our LD To-Do List is nearly empty except for finishing the semi-annual wax job. 

Tiz a very good feeling. 

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #1
After a long time procrastinating about ordering an UltraGauge, ours arrived the other day.  I read that 60+ page manual twice and selected the gauges I’d like to use.  This afternoon I plan to configure the UltraGauge with the help of one of our Elder/Experienced LDOF Members. 

We have a ScanGauge in the LD and Ultragauges in both of the Jeeps
In the LD, the monitor is set to monitor the coolant temp, the transmission fluid temp, inlet air temperature and the engine's RPM, since our LD did not come with tachometer . The intake temperature is the same as ambient when moving at 45-MPH or faster, it's used as a external thermometer.
The UltraGauge can monitor up to six items one of it's many 'pages'. In addition to the coolant, inlet and transmission temps, the voltage would also be a good to monitor.
While the UltraGauge has dozens of items to monitor, most will make no sense to non-automotive types, the coolant and transmission temps are what I'm most interested in, too bad the oil pressure isn't monitored. 
I would set the coolant and transmission temperatures to alarm at 235 degrees, both within the driveline's safe operating temperature range.

Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #2
Thank you Larry for your guidance.  We’re on the same page.  I’ve also added the miles since the last oil change and miles to empty.  We’re still working on the correct configuration for the transmission temperature.   My head hurts!!

I’m using the windshield suction cup mount in the lower left corner. I was able to run the cable between the door seal and the dash.  It’s snug and will stay put.  Zipped tied the remainder under the dash and secured with gorilla tape temporarily.

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #3
We've configured the Ultragauge and it seems to be working as advertised with one exception.  We've been unsuccessful configuring the Transmission Temperature Gauge despite trying at least 8 different configurations.  The UltraGauge company does not help or provide support for this issue.

As one of our last efforts to configure this gauge, we hopeful that someone on the LDOF has a 2009 E450 or maybe 2010 E450 with an UltraGauge Transmission Temperature Gauge.  We'd need a picture of the configuration for either MGauge 3 or MGauge 4.   Thanks in advance to anyone who can help us.

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #4
Ed and Margee,

Last year my better half programmed our UltraGauge to report transmission fluid temp.  Check out this post: Our Experience with UltraGauge Blue

We have a 2011 MB.

Jim

Jim & Sue
Formerly owned: 2011 27' MB, Sidra


Re: UltraGauge
Reply #6
Houston, The Eagle Has Landed!

Ed and I have been struggling with configuring his UltraGauge MX to show transmission temperature on his 2009 MB.  I had figured out codes years ago for my ’08, but they did not work on his.  To make a long story short, we finally have it figured out.  Here is what the problem was.  ScanGauge lists four configurations to get transmission temperatures, but to protect their product, they include extra bits in their coding, which their ScanGauge ignores, but which make their codes useless on an UltraGauge. 

UltraGauge includes instructions for translating those ScanGauge codes to use with an UltraGauge, but it is somewhat hard to follow.  We finally got it, and a short time ago, his gauge finally showed a value for his transmission temperature. 

Having worked it out, we both thought it would be a good idea to post the four settings, translated for UltraGauge.  If you are installing an UltraGauge on a Ford e450, 2008 or later, there is a good chance that one of these will work for you. (Make sure you are entering zero’s, not the letter O when typing!)

Go to the setup for M-Gauge 4, then enter one of the following:

First Configuration (This one worked for me)
TData: 07E02216740000
TCtr1: 93
RCtr1: 31
RPos: 2010
Mtch: 621674
X: 0001
/: 0008
+: 0000
Out Format: 00
Ave: 00
Left/Right: 41

Second Configuration
TData: 07E12216740000
TCtr1: 93
RCtr1: 31
RPos: 2010
Mtch: 621674
X: 0001
/: 0008
+: 0000
Out Format: 00
Ave: 00
Left/Right: 41

Third Configuration  (This one worked for Ed)
TData: 07E0221E1C0000
TCtr1: 93
RCtr1: 31
RPos: 2010
Mtch: 621E1C
X: 0009
/: 0050
+: 0020
Out Format: 00
Ave: 00
Left/Right: 41

Fourth Configuration 
TData: 07E1221E1C0000
TCtr1: 93
RCtr1: 31
RPos: 2010
Mtch: 621E1C
X: 0009
/: 0050
+: 0020
Out Format: 00
Ave: 00
Left/Right: 41

Try them one at a time, each time going back to the main screen to see if the codes work, or if you are getting an ERR message.  If you still see an ERR message, go back to the M-Gauge setup and try the next configuration.  Chances are, one of the four will work.

Hopefully, this will save others a lot of skull work trying to figure out binary and hexadecimal math codes.

Ken F in NM
'08 MB

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #7
I have to say that Mr. Ken Fears spent an extraordinary amount of time and effort trying to sort this out for me.  Clearly, "above and beyond the call the duty."  I'm very grateful ... and especially pleased to see a Transmission Temperature reading on our UltraGauge.   Thank you Ken for your terrific help on an exceedingly difficult issue.

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #8
"Hopefully, this will save others a lot of skull work trying to figure out binary and hexadecimal math codes."

As Andy pointed out earlier the Trans Temp for our UltraGauge model (?) had the correct codes residing natively for the E-450. I don't understand why it should be so much trouble, did not UltraGauge carry that feature forward to newer models?

I had been initially using the ScanGauge for over two years but due to the inability of being able to see the small digits I then bought the UltraGauge instead, about 2006. It read the necessary codes from the OBDII the first time I fired it up and it remains there regardless of having to re-boot several times when the memory was lost for one reason or another.   ::)
Steve S.
Lazy Bones & Cedar
2004 30'IB (Island Bed)
Yesterday is History, Tomorrow is a Mystery
Live for the day!

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #9
If you are installing an UltraGauge on a Ford e450, 2008 or later, there is a good chance that one of these will work for you.

The configurations to make the UltraGauge find the transmission temperature for Ken's 2008, Margee's & Ed 2009, and CBSShermans' 2011 are all different because apparently, the Ford transmission codes are different.

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #10
Expanding on what Ed posted, when Andy installed his Ultra Gauge, it was in a 2003 MB.  The two M Gauge Transmission Temperature Gauges provided in the Ultra Gauge options gave him a workable solution.  They might work for Steve in his '04 IB.  The do NOT work in 2008 or later Ford e450's because Ford changes the codes in their engine's computer, which is where the Ultra Gauge gets its information. 

The codes used in an OBDII scanner fall into two sets.  One set is a standardized set, the same in every US vehicle made from 2008 on.  Ultra Gauge provides readability for all of them, as they are standardized.  That standardized set relates primarily to engine efficiency and emissions.  The second set is the manufacturers' set.  These are not standardized.  The manufacturer is free to, and does, change those codes depending on make, model, year and options.  That is why my '08 used one set and Ed's '09 used another set.

Ultra Gauge did not change its programming.  Rather, they include a set of 8 M Gauges, which are configurable by the purchaser to match the codes used by your vehicle.  The problem is determining what those codes need to be.  Ford does not, to the best of my knowledge, provide those codes.  So, Ultra Gauge tells you, up front, that you are on your own with them.  If you can find and input the right codes, you will get a good display.  If not, you won't.  That is why Andy was able to basically plug and play on his '03, but neither Ed nor I were able to do so on our post-'08 vehicles.  It is why I said that the codes I posted were for '08 or newer Ford e450 units.  It is also why a number of members here have tried, and failed, to get their Ultra Gauge to display transmission temperatures.  Getting the codes above took us a long time to find, and even when we had them, we had no certainty that any of the four would work.  I assure you, we were rather ecstatic when the third one worked for him.

Ken F in NM
'08 MB

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #11
Urban legend has it that Thomas Edison tried something like 6,000 different filaments before he got to tungsten.
 ;)
I think my scangauge success was on the order of 3 or 4
Joel & Terry Wiley
dog Zeke
2013  31 IB   Orwan   / 2011 CRV Tow'd LWEROVE

 
Re: UltraGauge
Reply #12
I have a 2001 26.5 RB and was wondering if anyone knows if either Scan gauge, or Ultra gauge will work to monitor my transmission fluid temp?
Thanks, Steve
2001 26.5 Rear Bath

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #13
I have a 2001 26.5 RB and was wondering if anyone knows if either Scan gauge, or Ultra gauge will work to monitor my transmission fluid temp?
Thanks, Steve

We have a ScanGauge in our 2003 LD, it has the same transmission, a 4L100, as your 2001 LD and it should also have a temperature sender. It read the transmission temperature after inputting a long series of numbers found on ScanGuage's website. 
It was a two-person job, one to read the numbers while the other punch the numbers in. If needed to be done this way since the ScanGauge times out too quickly for one person to read and input the numbers.
» Ford – Lincoln – Mercury

Larry

.
Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #14
We have had a ScanGaugeII for a long time. We now use an OBDLink MX+ from OBD Solutions. No entering long PID codes and no cable required. A much more capable and versatile appliance, in my opinion. I also recently purchased an OBDLink EX from OBD Solutions to use with my laptop.

Charles

Harvest Hosts + Boondockers Welcome #23975
Escapees SKP #138195
2007 23.5' Twin King

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #15
Charles I am very interested in the OBD Link MX based on your description above.

Does this unit plug into the same port that reports scan codes?  Or the smog check?  

I see you mention using it with a laptop.  Can you use both the laptop and an iPhone at the same time?

Seems like a great tool. Thank you for the suggestion.

Cheers!

Tony R, (aka codefour)

Tony R
2010 LD RB - Sold to another happy LD Family

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #16
Hi Tony. The OBDLink MX+ plugs into the OBDII port below the steering wheel, connects to clients by Bluetooth, and is powered by the vehicle. The OBDLink EX also plugs into that same port and connects to a computer or laptop by a USB-A cable. I don't know if the MX+ can make multiple concurrent Bluetooth connections. Obviously, the EX is only able to connect to one client at a time. OBDII splitter extension cables are available, I don't have any experience with them. Hope that helps.

Charles

Harvest Hosts + Boondockers Welcome #23975
Escapees SKP #138195
2007 23.5' Twin King

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #17
I installed a ScanGuage II in our LD some months back. I monitor Transmission Temp and have found that the highest temps (when climbing or descending a significant grade) are up to 205 degrees. I’d be interested to know what temps and durations folks look for when monitoring higher transmission temperatures?

Thanks

Warren
Warren
2019 MB “Dream Catcher”
Jeep Wrangler JL

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #18
I installed a ScanGuage II in our LD some months back. I monitor Transmission Temp and have found that the highest temps (when climbing or descending a significant grade) are up to 205 degrees. I’d be interested to know what temps and durations folks look for when monitoring higher transmission temperatures?

Warren, a week ago I posted this on a public forum in response to such a question about his 2018 F53 with the six speed transmission.....

"My 2-valve V-10 engine runs at 190 to 192 degrees almost all the time, I’ve only seen it go to 195 on a few occasions. I have the 5R110 5-speed with Tow/Haul and the transmission temperature usually runs between 190 and 210 and has never been higher. I have been told this transmission is rated at 250 max. But I have heard/read Ford actually says something like 270. The engine and transmission cooling systems on my MH are huge and on your MH are probably even bigger and perform better. I would be concerned about the transmission at 220 and pull over at 250 with my MH."

Charles
Harvest Hosts + Boondockers Welcome #23975
Escapees SKP #138195
2007 23.5' Twin King

Re: UltraGauge
Reply #19
Our 2003 LD's engine and transmission normal temps are similar to the ones mentioned but transmission has hit 230 on several occasions, usually at the end of a long, steep climb on a hot summer day, pulling a heavy Jeep. Think the Siskiyou's steeper grades in August.
The coolant temp has been that high too, both temps are well within the designed operating limits. The dash analog gauges were still in the mid-range, the computer doesn't get worried until the temps get much higher. It will let you know if the engine gets too hot, probably in the 250+ range. The engine has a fail-safe mode that prevents damage from overheating .
Modern engine and transmissions are built to run safely at higher temperatures, the materials, fluids and lubricants are very different than what most of us grew up with, they have been designed for much hotter operations.

When the transmission was rebuilt, I asked john Wood about what temperature he considered to be getting hot, with the answer of 240 and up and only if it does it for an extended period. A trans temp of 180-210 is considered optimum, with synthetic fluid, it can handle a much higher temperature without harm. All of John's transmission are filled with synthetic fluid.
Remember that the E450s are used by U-Haul as moving vans, built to be seriously abused by uncaring employees and customers. They are tough to hurt, especially E450s built in the mid 2000s and later.

A much larger transmission cooler can be installed, as recommended by John, it makes a noticeable difference.
Expect to see a slightly higher coolant temperature on smoking hot days.
Larger transmission cooler E450 | Flickr

I need to document the seasonal water spray cooler I have used for the last few years, now that its effectiveness is known.
It really helps to keep the temps down when it's hot out, without using a lot of water.
Our 1983 LD had a spray cooler, its undersized cooling system needed all the help it could get.

Stay cool.
Larry

Larry
2003 23.5' Front Lounge, since new.  Previously 1983 22' Front Lounge.
Tow vehicles  2020 Jeep Wrangler Rubicon, 2001 Jeep Cherokee
Photo Collection: Lazy Daze