Originally Posted by fat angel
my opinion is probably going to be the most different. i work with different types of gauges from the lowest bidder. they all do the same thing. a mechanical gauge isn't going to read much different then the next or an electrical for that matter. if you aren't relying on the gauge for life or death then i think you're fine. if you're looking for the gauge to tell you there is a problem, then i think you're fine. they might not be quite as accurate as some of the others but i think they'll give you a very good idea of what is going on. i have used a meagan product and still do and still have no problems, i would still go autometer though. they've been around forever and can be had for cheap on ebay.

all they make is gauges

but the meagans probably wont be bad.
I agree with you to a point, MR exhaust's, d/p's u/p's headers, coilovers might be worthy of saving money, but your going to risk your engine by relying on a poorly designed and built gauge? There are plenty of knock off parts- low line brands but I would draw the line at gauges,electronics, internals exct. Just something to think about.