The gauges are a bit out of the line of sight, but I have no problem checking them while driving. Then again I'm used to checking gauges while flying a helicopter (picture of my cockpit below). It doesn't work for everyone but it works for me. Even completely stock I have managed to get my exhaust temp up to just under 1200 without trying hard in the mountains pulling a 10,000 trailer. I got my gauges at diesel manor that has a good deal on them and has the mounts too. Here's the link.
ISSPRO Gauge Kits for Dodge Cummins from DieselManor