Looking for opinions? in-expensive engine monitors?

Just got my rv6a flying! So, all my $$ is going to avgas.

Anyways, I got the project from the previous builder with a full panel of steam guages and analog instruments already. As i'm on a budget I haven't been able to make any significant changes. On the whole, i'm happy with the panel as-is and generally like a good 6-pack.



However, the engine instruments are not optimal. The analog gauges don't work well. Both the volt meter and the oil pressure gauge require some "percussive encouragement" before they start reading. I also don't like having to switch what cylinder to read CHT's or EGT's from. Especially as i'm breaking the engine in and adjusting the engine baffling I want more immediate access to those temperature readings.

Thinking about potentially getting the Tru Trak iMonitor thing for my iPhone, but not sure about relying on my iPhone as my sole engine monitor. Maybe ok temporarily, and it's within my budget (barely). Anyone have experience with this app? http://www.trutrakflightsystems.com/products/iMonitorLite.html

Thanks!

EIS 4000 is a great value and compact unit.

If you want simultaneous four-cylinder monitoring, I would say the Dynon EMS D-10 is your best bet (looks like you may be able to slide into into the hole currently occupied by your tach). It is awesome and does 99% of what the other, more expensive units do.

Another vote for the Dynon EMS-D10 as a compact all-in-one graphical engine monitor.

Thanks!

The EIS 4000 is interesting. Hard to tell from the photos and description how the data is represented. Seems largely textual instead of graphical. Not as good, but hey i'm on a budget and will probably suffice. I'll have to do some additional reading on this unit to see if it will work with my existing sensor package.

The Dynon D10 is a great unit! I've co-piloted in RV's with one and it's easily worth the price, which is sadly beyond my reach right now. Gotta pick and choose which things to spend money on; food and avgas are higher on the list.

Ran across a few MGL instruments that might fit the bill -

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/inpages/1105699.php

http://www.aircraftspruce.com/catalog/inpages/1105698.php

Doesn't replace my finicky oil pressure and volt meter gauges... Though I have idiot lights setup on separate circuits for those two functions.

Thanks for the input!

MGL Velocity E-1 or MGL Xtreme. I have an E-1 and it works great. The Xtreme gives you a full EFIS in a 3-1/8" hole.