Monitor engine load without OBD2?
 

Hey guys, I was browsing the net regarding my Mustang, and I happened ed to stumble across this spreadsheet of engine load vs temp = A/F ratio. It seems like the Mustang runs most efficient between 40-55% engine load and 180-210F. Problem is, no OBD-2. Is there anyway of monitoring engine load without OBD2? Because if not, I may have to get a A/F ratio gauge.

Vacuum gauge. Load is measured by subtracting vacuum reading from ambient pressure.

IE ambient 30 inches
VAC reading 10 inches
LOAD 20/30 or 66.6%

regards
mech

Wow I legitimately didn't know that! Thanks! I think I'll pick up a cheap one the next time I get paid and install it. Now I just have to find out where is the best place to tap into the vacuum system.

They make tapered adaptors (cone shaped). Best place to tap is the brake booster hose. Do it very near either end so you can shorten the hose if necessary later to eliminate the hole. The booster hose will have the most stable vacuum. If there is a check valve in the hose, tap into the hose before it reaches the check valve (vacuum will not vary with engine speed after the check valve). Some systems have a check valve in the supply hose, others have the valve where the hose reaches the booster.

Drill a small hole in the hose, near either end (but before the check valve) and stick the cone shaped adaptor in the hole. Connect that to your gauge.

regards
mech