2001 DX has no tachometer

[nastradamus]

I just bought my first car two days ago, a 2001 DX coup 5sp (i'm sure you figured that out from the title)

one thing i'm not too happy about is the fact that it doesn't have a tachometer. what is the simplest way to get a tachometer going on my car?

a single gauge cluster placed on the side? replace the entire instrument gauge cluster?

[nastradamus]

in addition, would the instrument gauge cluster from a automatic 2001 civic be compatible with by 2001 standard civic

[BrodyP]

You can use an 01-02 cluster for it to be plug and play other wise some rewiring would need to be done on the later models. You can also purchase a tach and throw it right up for a few bucks. That would be your cheapest way. But honestly a tach isnt needed thats why its NOT there. You manual tells you what speeds to shift at plus I'm sure your ears can hear it. Search on Ebay for clusters if you want.

[nastradamus]

thanks for responding, brody. the manual wasn't included when i bought it so i don't know the exact speed to shift at. although you're right in saying one know when to shift up by listening to the engine. shifting up isn't really why i want it. i don't feel 100% confident down shifting when i don't know the rpm.

i decided against using an exteranl tach because holes would be drilled in the interior to mount it, right? or could i remove it later with no damage whatsoever? since I cannot find an 01-02 cluster that isn't automatic a tach would be nice and simple

[BrodyP]

We used doubled sided sticky tape or strong velcro..Works well so far