Transistor in rally gauge ?

KosmicKuda said

You're thinking of the IVR. (Instrument Voltage Regulator) It regulates the voltage to supply 5 bolts to the gauges. I bought all the parts needed from Radio Shack for less than $5. But that was over 10 yrs ago.
It's been awhile but I think there is a simple IC, a heat sink and one more component (resistor, capacitor, something) required.
In a 67-69 cuda the stock mechanical voltage regulator is built into the gas gauge. Pretty sure on a b body it's a stand alone assembly. I performed a vasectomy inside my gas gauge to disable the stock IVR, one snip and it was no longer operable.
I think they are available for about 30 bucks if you don't want to make your own.

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Yep, RTE is not the only game in town nor the sharpest knife in the drawer. There are several solid state regulators out there with a range of features and prices. RTE is likely the only one with flashing LEDs on it ( if you think you need that ).
Nobody really needs to open the gauge to disable the mechanical limiter. To lift the gauge from the inst' housing and isolate the back of it from chassis ground serves the same purpose. Simply cover that added piece of thin metal with electric tape.
ON THE OTHER HAND... majority of the 20 ohm fuel gauges I have opened were cooked/toasted with or without a limiter inside. There duty cycle does significantly more harm than the duty cycle of oil and temp gauges. I have seen quite a few of those toasted too. Good luck with yours