[cv70chall]

What is the best way to test my gauges prior to installing them?
Can I use an 18v cordless drill battery or is that too much?

Thanks

[dave-r]

What is the best way to test my gauges prior to installing them?
Can I use an 18v cordless drill battery or is that too much?

Thanks

You can use that if you want to destroy them.

Which guages are you testing? Some of them run on 5 volts which is why there is a low voltage regulator fitted to the back of the dash.

[cv70chall]

I want to test the FUEL, AMP and CLOCK before I put them in. I surely don't want to destroy anything!

[cv70chall]

9V battery?
12V battery?

and what do I look for- I mean, shouldn't the needle jump or move when current is applied?

[dave-r]

The AMP gauge you would be pushed to test as it would need a lot of current going through it. Best leave that until it is in the car. It will either work or be open circuit.
They are bad things to have working anyway. You would be better off shorting it out and fitting a VOLT gauge somewhere.

The clock will work from any good 12 volt source.

The fuel gauge is only 5 volts. Any more than that will kill it.