I am trying to install an aftermarket tachometer on a 2000 4cyl. ranger. I know I can get power from the stereo but I don't know where the ignition coil is and which wire on it to tap into for the signal cable. My question is where is the ignition coil? What color is the negative coil? pics would be appreciated.

 

Tyler,

I'm assuming you have a 2.5 L engine since you don't have this information in your signature or Profile. Recommend you update for future reference.

To find the coils, simply follow the spark plug wires back to the coil packs. As to which wire to tap and which coil to tap depends on the aftermarket manufactures instructions. Does your truck currently have a tach in the dash cluster? What does the instructions with the tach you purchased state?

 

yes i have a 2.5l.

no i do not have a factory tachometer.

my aftermarket tach says tho attach to the negative side of the ignition coil.

Thank You

 

From everything I'm finding, they recommend connecting aftermarket tach input (green wire) to the PCM Tach terminal. It should be Pin #48 (Tan with Yellow stripe wire) at the PCM connector. This wire runs from the PCM to the firewall connector and then behind the dash and would normally be used to run the factory tach if installed (note, this wire should be present regardless).

 

I too saw this but I was actually wondering where the tach cord originates from as I don't really want to tap into my PCM

 

Since your truck utilizes two coil packs (two coils in each pack). Both coil packs utilize a common power feed. However, each coil pack has two separate grounds (one for each coil) which are routed to the PCM, which in turn controls each coil individually.

If you tap one of these grounds for your tach it would not properly register the engine RPM. You would have to use some type of an adapter designed for DIS with coil packs Click link summit racing parts

However, I believe you can tap the PCM Tach output accomplishing the same thing without the need for the adapter saving yourself about $80.00 dollars.

 

I guess I will have to tap into the wire on the pcm then. is there a spot that i could find this wire already in the cab or is it only in the engine bay?

 

See if this thread helps
https://www.ranger-forums.com/showth...highlight=tach

Or if you're up for some reading
Click the search button at the top of the pane
Enter tach in the search by keyword box
Enter rwenzing in the search by user box
Click the search now button at the bottom.

 

thankyou this is a huge help

 

and thankyou for all the help rev