Another question to add to the speedometer list

[Jumper]

I'm trying to get my gauges working on my boat (80 Monark bass boat with a 73 Merc 850). My speedometer isn't working. From what I gather, my speedo tube has an air hose running from the gauge to the back of the boat. The hose has been cut just under the console. I took and put the hose back together with a splice nipple to see if I can get something out of it. Nothing. Following the hose to the back of the boat, it looks like it comes out at the upper right hand (as your look at the rear of the boat) corner of the transom then does a 90 degree turn towards the bottom of the boat. Towards the bottom there appears to be the remnants of some sort of lever. Reading back thru old posts, I'm assuming this is the pitot tube that's been mentioned. However, I've also heard of the tube running to the upper end of the lower unit. Can someone tell me what type of speedo system I have/may have? I'm going to go home this evening and blow thru the hose just under the console to see if it's working. Any suggestions on where to start looking? Or where I can get the replacement pitot tube if mine is supposed to have it? Any help/suggestions is appreciated!!

 

[Jamar]

Re: Another question to add to the speedometer list

Air line and lever at transom = Pitot tube type speedo. Air line probably dry, brittle and cracked. IF lever is broken need replacing. Most any boating supply store/maybe sporting goods should have one. Pitot's run $7-$12 depending on locale, tubing runs $0.20 - $0.40 per foot. Replace the tubing and the pitot and you should be up and running IF the speedo is operationable. Only true way to test for working is to replace the tube/pitot and get in the water. Most wont register until after planing speeds. If the speedo still dont work, no big deal, pick one up on ebay for around 20-30 bucks.<br />Speedo or no speedo you are better off getting that tach working. Is a better guage for troubleshooting.

 

[Jumper]

Re: Another question to add to the speedometer list

Thanks Jamar! My primary concern right now is getting the tach running. But would like to get the speedo going just so I know how approx how fast I'm going across the water. But you're right. The tach should be the first thing to get fixed. Just got my motor running and though it sounds/runs good, I'm not sure if I'm getting the full potential out of it.<br /><br />Thanks again!!