1980 Johnson J140TLCSA 140hp Outboard Temp sensor??

[ybstuk]

I have a 1980 140 Johnson Outboard V4 (J140TLCSA). Does anyone know if there is a temperature sensor/sending unit in this motor as an OEM option? I'd like to install a gauge and connect to it if possible.

If there isn't one, does anyone have experience installing an aftermarket temp sensor? I always monitor the water pump stream, but it would be nice to have a gauge on the dash to look at quickly to detect any problem if needed.

Any help is greatly appreciated - Thank you

ybstuk

 

[wrench 3]

They didn't come with a gauge but it should have an overheat temperature switch in each head and an alarm buzzer in the remote control box. You can test the system by grounding the wire at one of the switches.

 

[racerone]

A water pressure gauge is a good item to install.

 

[ybstuk]

They didn't come with a gauge but it should have an overheat temperature switch in each head and an alarm buzzer in the remote control box. You can test the system by grounding the wire at one of the switches.

I will look for this and test it. I've heard that once the buzzer goes off, it's already too late - is this true? Is there a way to connect an actual gauge to these switches? Thanks.

 

[ybstuk]

A water pressure gauge is a good item to install.

Hmm... I'm guessing I would need to purchase a sending unit/sensor then connect to it? I'll do some research - any links you're aware of that show something like this? Thanks!

 

[racerone]

Gauge kits are an every day item.----Simple / cheap / easy to install.-----Run to a boat shop for help on that item.

 

[wrench 3]

I will look for this and test it. I've heard that once the buzzer goes off, it's already too late - is this true? Is there a way to connect an actual gauge to these switches? Thanks.

The buzzer will sound before it gets hot enough to do any damage but don't try to get that extra mile.
Those switches will only give you a hot or cold reading, nothing in between.

 

[oldboat1]

Surface temp gauges are hard to find these days, but this would be one: https://www.ebay.com/itm/TEMP-GAUGE...60-220F-WITH-SENDER-2-678-13113-/181594147062 The seller might be able to come up with a second sender for you -- could work with a toggle switch to check both head temps.

I have an old OMC unit that has worked well.

 

[ybstuk]

Thank you everyone for the info - I will do some research and some thinking on what I want to do. Thanks again!

 

[interalian]

You could go nuts like I did. Two automotive 1/8"NPT senders drilled and tapped into the cylinder head cover, wired to a SPDT switch to the gauge. I leave mine on STBD for normal running as that's the high side and is more likely to overheat.

Oh, and dual pissers - one off each cover. Just because.