Home
INSTRUMENTS 90-1
   

Gauge and Instrument Testing with Special Tool VW 1301

The Volkswagen/Audi special tool VW 1301 is a simple resistance substitution box used to check instrument cluster gauge operation. Some newer versions of this tool are identified as VAG 1301 or VAS 1301, but all serve the same function which is to replace the gauge sending unit with a known resistance value. Once this known value is in place, the gauge in question can be observed for correct calibration. This information can then be used to determine if the fault lies with the gauge, the sending unit or the wiring connections.

The resistance dialed into the VW1301 is not input as Ohms, but rather as reference units. These reference units are easily converted into Ohms in the accompanying table for use with fixed resistors or commercial resistance substitution boxes.

Due to the relatively small amounts of power used by the instrument cluster gauges and low power handling capability of the VW 1301, it should only be used for instrument cluster gage testing.

The VAG 1630 resistance substitution box can not be adjusted to increments low enough and small enough to be useful for gauge testing.

A resistance substitution box used for regular electronics repair can be used in place of the VW 1301 when set to the proper resistance values. Individual ½ Watt fixed resistors can be assembled in series for individual tests.

GUAGE AND INSTRUMENT TESTING WITH SPECIAL TOOL VW 1301

INSTRUMENTS 90-2
   

VW 1301 units to Ohms (Ω) conversion:

    If the repair information calls for a value of 40 on the VW 1301, substitute 32 Ω in actual fixed resistance. Actual Ohms were measured on several different VW 1301 tools and averaged. The table is applicable to both Volkswagen and Audi. Always check the corresponding repair information for the appropriate VW 1301 values.
Resistance Units
on VW 1301		 Actual
Ohms (Ω)		 Observed ±
Ohms (Ω)		 Notes:
Fuel Gauges		 Notes:
Temperature Gauges		 Notes:
Miscellaneous
40 32 2     MFI oil temperature,
250°F - 275°F (125°C - 135°C)
50 34 2 Typical FULL value Typical HOT value  
52 35 2   Typical HOT value  
55 37 2 Typical FULL value    
60 39 2 Typical FULL value Typical HOT value  
62 40 2   Typical HOT value  
110 67 2     MFI oil temperature,
203°F - 221°F (95°C - 105°C)
215 116 3 Typical 1/4 TANK value    
220 122 3     MFI oil temperature,
167°F - 185°F (75°C - 85°C)
320 168 3 Typical EMPTY value    
350 184 3 Typical RESERVE value    
430 227 3     MFI oil temperature,
140°F (60°C)
500 258 3   Typical COLD value  
510 263 3   Typical COLD value  
550 284 3 Typical EMPTY value    
560 288 3 Typical EMPTY value    
990 509 5     MFI air temperature,
77°F (25°C)
GUAGE AND INSTRUMENT TESTING WITH SPECIAL TOOL VW 1301

"The Bentley manuals are worth having, even for the car owner who never intends to perform major repairs. Anyone can learn from them."

- Road & Track