Infrared Thermometers

etjeep

etjeep

New Member
Joined
Apr 20, 2005
Location
Cary, NC
Anyone have a good site that does a comparision of infrared thermometers. I'm looking for shade tree mechanic grade, not NASA grade. In searching, I keep coming up with this type of site http://www.professionalequipment.com/infrared-thermometer/?CMP=KNC-Google

It shows the low end about $100 or less that only measures up to 500C (932F). You have to step up to the next grade $150 up that measure up to 760C (1400F) if you want to measure diesel EGT for example.

I don't want to spend for a Snap-On or Matco (if they even make one) yet I don't see myself buying a HF one either. Anyone else do already do some basic research on this?
 
IMHO, using an IR for EGT would be very hard without dropping the entire DP... most CTDs will drop 350*F-500*F (depending on who you ask) between the manifold and the turbo!

I used a borrowed $79 model IR thermometer to check my weird tranny temp issues and found it read about 20*F different on the outside of the lines than the inline Isspro (sender tip *IN* the oil flow)... a difference that seems to be completely normal to me?

The cheaper would still allow you to get readings from heads, cooling (AF & ATF) lines, etc. as well as various thing around the house (HVAC, fridges, oven...)
 
Caver Dave said:
IMHO, using an IR for EGT would be very hard without dropping the entire DP... most CTDs will drop 350*F-500*F (depending on who you ask) between the manifold and the turbo!
I used a borrowed $79 model IR thermometer to check my weird tranny temp issues and found it read about 20*F different on the outside of the lines than the inline Isspro (sender tip *IN* the oil flow)... a difference that seems to be completely normal to me?
The cheaper would still allow you to get readings from heads, cooling (AF & ATF) lines, etc. as well as various thing around the house (HVAC, fridges, oven...)
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OK I'm learning here....I don't want to drop the coin on a cheapy only to turn around and find out I need a higher range for automotive or diesel use. I'll keep searching for a decent write-up.
 
I can't see you getting a good reading on the outside of the manifold.. headers maybe, but not a manifold.

Mine was $50 from the tool warehouse and I love it... but it does max out around 500° or so.
 
Snapon has them for around 129.00. About the same price your looking at without shipping charges. They carry about 10-15 different models ask your dealer for a RWD catalog. It has alot of Non Snapon branded items for a competive price.
 
Blkvoodoo said:
http://www.thetoolwarehouse.net/shop/MAS-52224-A-SP.html

Max's out at 930°

used to have this, worked well, has been involuntarrily re-homed.

Santa my be bringing me another this year.
Click to expand...

Thats even better price. Carl B brought one to show off last year but I don'r recall the brand. I've been thinking about it ever since. Good for checking wheel bearing temps on the trailer and 1000 other uses.

Blkvoodoo said:
, has been involuntarrily re-homed. [/QUOTE] huh???
Click to expand...
 
The wife got me a Craftsman about 5-6 years ago still works has +/- 3% every Hg thermometer I've checked it against is deadon with it. As well as the Autometer 2 5/8" Sport Comp in the wifeys car.
 
I had one to tune in my losi xxx stadium truck when r/c racing, but cant remember the name of it.Bought from thr hobby store in King NC. I never knew how high it would read, as r/c engine temps were between 280 and 300 most of the time.
 
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