Thread: How to convert your ashtray into a digital engine alarm for $39

Hi All,

Well my older type Engine Saver overtemp alarm gave up the ghost so I decided to make use of my ashtray to install a digital engine overtemp alarm using generic parts from eBay.

Here's How TO:

Total cost $38.54.

I chose this particular controller as it; displays both the actual temperature as measured on the cylinder head (in red), plus the alarm temperature (in green); the alarm temp can be adjusted easily whilst driving by simply pressing the up or down arrows; it would (just!!) fit into the ashtray.



The system comprises:
Sestos 12V PID temperature controller $33.99
12 24V Digital PID Temperature Controller | eBay

K Type washer thermocouple $3.00
Thermocouple Sensors K Type With Washer | eBay

Electronic Buzzer $1.55
95nu llAla rmArdui noHi ghDecib el D C32 4V1 2VElectron icBuzz erContinuo usBe | eBay

Step 1 - butcher your ashtray!


Remove the metal ashtray liner then cut plastic to fit the PID.
An easier fit would be a 1/32 DIN size controller, but most of these do not display the alarm temp as well as the actual temp.

Step 2 - install your K Type thermocouple:


I Installed mine in the place where the Engine Saver sensor was - ie bolted to LH rear side of head. This particular thermocouple appears to be good quality, has a stainless steel sheathed cable and is the correct length (2M) to reach the dash. Routing of the cable is up to the firewall, across the firewall to the RH top corner of the engine bay then through the large grommet you will find behind the firewall insulation.

Step 3 - install alarm, controller in ashtray, and wire to a switched ignition outlet (from a spare outlet at bottom of fuse panel)


Wiring:


Step 4 - configure controller.

* Wire the electronic buzzer to the controller Output terminals (normally open) - and not the Alarm terminal.
* Set the controller to work in ON/OFF mode
* Set the controller to work in Cooling mode, so that when the set temperature is reached (eg 98C) the controller will immediately close the Output contacts and sound the buzzer !
* Set the controller to accept a K Type thermocouple input
* Set the controller to your desired temparature by simply pressing the up or down arrows.

Test drive !

Have fun

Cheers
Simon

I have them connected to the right terminal but still not working. I will insulate them with some mica pieces and see if it improves... cheers