I will start by apologizing if I have posted this in the wrong Forum. Keep in mind I'm only evaluating demand and not trying to sell a product at this time.

I have been working on a new design for a shift light to replace the plagued autometer (lense kept falling out, don't like pills, etc). I will give you guys the general functionality:

-Digitally settable shift point (similar to hondata)
-Digitally adjustable Day and Night light brightness via headlight switch
-Dual shiftlights, one for shift warning (blue) and one for the actual shift light (red)
-Available for all types of engines with a standard tachometer signal.
-Packaged in a CNC machined 6061-T6 aluminum available in polished or anodized (Black standard, blue and red available).

Comparison:
-NO pills to buy
-NO light bulbs to burn out
-ALL electronics contained within the light, no external boxes
-Custom programs available to do "special" features (contact me)
-Less expensive than the autometer equivilent.
-High quality enclosure, not pressed sheetmetal.

Autometer Quick-Lite (Size Comperable) according to Jegs:
RPM Activated Module - $65.99
Quick-Lite (Black) - $37.99
RPM Pills (8,600-9400) - $25.99
Total - $129.97


At the link below, it describes the unit in more detail and shows how to set up the shift point and brightness levels. Click the link "Yes, I am interested." if you are interested in purchasing one of these in the next few months. Enter your information and choose an apropriate price you value the unit at. To help me out you can add comments such as your desired finish (black anodized, blue anodized, polished, etc) or any other details.
http://www.fmeproducts.com/shiftlight.php

This is nearly Identical to how the light will look. If you look closely the front of the aiming tube is actually tapered to help aim the light. Also the fixture will pivot up and down. The light is actually 4" long and 3/4" in diameter (subject to be smaller). The base is 1.5" tall to the bottom of the shiftlight.



If you have any questions please post them or email me at Rob@FMEproducts.com . I do not have a prototype yet because this project is costly to have build and I must assure that there is a demand before I order 25 enclosures, circuit boards, components etc. Your input is GREATLY appreciated!!

-Rob Falkenhayn

 

If you guys are interested please submit your interest form here:
http://www.fmeproducts.com/shiftlight.php

Thanks!

 

I'm not interested, because I have a completely different idea for a shift light that I think everyone will love (keeping it under wraps right now).

But I suggest you change the "hinge" a little for increased stability. This way, when you tighten down the bolt that is connecting the stand, and the light, it "pinches" the light tab on two sides.. Here's a quick and dirty mockup.




[Modified by martini, 10:08 AM 11/12/2002]

 

rob,

my opinion is to also incorporate a warning signla (in red) when oil pressure = 0 psi.

greg

 

Martini-

Yeah, actually I already have that same design however eliminated it for ease of machining. I think i'll probably just make a few for some close friends who really liked the design and keep it for myself. Seems everyone has negative opinions and won't give me the time of day. Thats fine, it was more for the enjoyment than the money.

 

Cheetah-

Thanks for the advice, unfortunatly with this circuit design (already completed) it will not be possible.

 

Hey guys, I received the circuit boards today and hope (if all goes well) to have a prototype by monday. I will have pictures up on the website soon! For all of you who submitted the interest form, I thank you! If you have not please visit:

http://www.fmeproducts.com/shiftlight.php

And add your interest form so we can keep you updated. You also have a say in the final pricing!!

Thanks everyone!

 

Cheetah-

I have been thinking about the oil pressure warning light. What is wrong with the oil light (OEM Dummy light) currently on your dash board? I don't see any advantage because the shift light would do the exact same thing as the dummy light since it would read the exact same sensor. I think something that would be REAL cool is an oil INDICATOR piece, that would tell you the quantity of oil remaining in your oil pan.

 

the stock dummy light is small, most racecars dont use the stock cluster, I for one would wnat a shiftlight with that ability and know of a few more pro racers who would also. A big light jsut as loud as a shift ligth will say 0psi and immediately driver shuts down.

greg

 

or have it higher than 0psi, like 20 psi or something. 0psi would probably be too late wouldnt it?

 

Problem with that is, once your engine really heats up, say after a real hard pull through the gears, the oil pressure drops significantly. This is due to the fact that as your oil heats up it becomes thinner and creates less pressure. My oil pressure would drop to 15psi at idle after the car was driven hard. Of course you could make it settable. Look for this type of functionality with my digital dash this spring.

 

Its done ...





I decided I didn't like the way some things were working so I'm working on a new design. Just thought I'd show you guys the quality of my work. The finished one will look even better!

BTW: the leads on some of those surface mount components are smaller than the tip of a pen. They were extremely hard to solder on me for buying such a small package. I went out and bought a real nice soldering iron to complete the task.