or many of us, it's tough to figure out a video or DVD player, let alone a sophisticated on-board computer (a.k.a. data loggers, data acquisition devices, black box and so on). Basically, bits and bytes don't seem to add up for some people. But more and more racers are using data loggers, and they're definitely reaping the rewards of having access to reliable on-track information. One of the biggest obstacles in having a data logger of some sort is actually hooking the thing up. You simply can't plug one into a cigarette lighter, toss it in the back seat and go racing. There's more to it than that.

So how do you hook one up? It's a question we asked Auto Meter: You see, Auto Meter has this neat computer called (appropriately) the "Data Logger", and its gaining widespread acceptance among the drag racing fraternity. They're being used in everything from the pro ranks on down to the slowest of the slow sportsman cars (and yes, we have it on good word that they've even installed them on serious street machines).

What Hardware Do You Need?

There are a number of different ways to configure a data gathering system. In the case of Auto Meter's Data Logger, a typical "sportsman" category installation will include the following equipment:

• Data Logger 17 Channel Racing Computer
• Data Fact Pro 32-bit Software
• Drive Shaft RPM Sensor Collar & Magnet (Can sub 9318 or 9323)
• Accelerometer
• Computer Download Cable Kit

There are a number of different sensors that require installation before the system is operative. One option that many racers include is a complete set of EGT (Exhaust Gas Temperature) probes. Auto Meter points out that when these probes are mounted (obviously in the primary header tubes), they should all be an equal distance from the port, and must be mounted prior to the first bend in the header. Typically, a distance of one to two inches from the port exit is the correct location. EGT probes are supplied in two formats: Straight or with a 90-degree bend. The straight versions can be individually bent by the installer. To accomplish this, a dedicated 3/16-inch tubing bender is used (typically, an Imperial Eastman bender). The EGT probes are in turn wired to a series of thermocouples. The wires from the EGT probes are shortened by the installer, then assembled into the thermocouple harness. Auto Meter offers several options that can be included with your computer package. Options typical in a sportsman application include the following:

• 8 EGT's (Exhaust Gas Temperature Probes and Transducers)
• Additional Pressure Sensors
• Temperature Sensors
• Voltage Reducer
• Vacuum Sensor
• Shock Travel Sensor. This system is designed to monitor the suspension movement at launch as well as down the track.

Equipment for something like a Pro Stock (car or truck) application will typically include the following additional equipment:

• Input Shaft Sensor (Lenco). This sensor determines the speed of the input shaft. It's a must have if you want to know what is really going on inside the bell housing.
• 25 PSI Pressure Sensor and Cable for Regulated Fuel Pressure ("Cable" is a data transmission harness)

A number of different RPM sensors are available for the Data Logger. Typically, you can measure input shaft RPM (currently available for Lenco style transmissions), engine RPM and driveshaft RPM. Engine speed is picked up by way of the ignition tach output terminal on an ignition control box. The input shaft speed sensor is picked up via the "candlestick" on a Lenco while the driveshaft speed is picked up with a rear end sensor such as the unit shown in this photo. Auto Meter offers rear end collars for 12-bolt Chevrolets as well as large and small pinion Ford 9-inch rear axles. Basically, a collar is installed on the rear end yokes and a series of magnets pick up the speed of the yoke. An RPM sensor or pickup is installed on the housing. This arrangement is similar to a crank trigger installation on an engine.

All of the cables supplied with the Auto Meter Data Logger are cut in a length of 15 feet. This allows for a custom cut end installation. The idea is to route and mark all cable length, then return the cables to Auto Meter where they will be properly terminated and assembled with the connector.

• 100 PSI Pressure Sensor and Cable. This option includes one 100 PSI sensor for either the high side fuel pressure reading or it can be used to monitor oil pressure.

As you can see (and likely imagine), a heavily optioned Data Logger will include a rather hefty amount of cabling. The best place for the respective harness assemblies is on the floor of the race car, next to the rocker panel (as shown here). The idea is to have the cabling in such a location that it's easy to reach and service if necessary. Additionally, cables should be kept as far away from ignition wires as possible. Auto Meter also advises that the use of RF suppression spark plugs should be used to reduce noise emission of all ignition types.

• Vacuum monitoring. This sensor monitors the vacuum inside the engine crank case.

Next issue, we'll examine installation issues. Some of the installation practices might surprise you!

Source -- Data Logger

Auto Meter Products Inc.
413 West Elm Street
Sycamore, IL 60178
PH: 815-895-8141

Thanks to Mike Pustelny Racing for sharing installation photos:

MPR Race Cars
5851 Scotch Settlement Road
Almont, Michigan 48003
PH# 810-798-8998

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