Automotive Dwell-Tach work on '86 40 Evinrude?

[CharlesW]

Is there anyway I can use an automotive dwell-tach I have to check the engine speed on my 1986 Evinrude 40? If possible, I would like to check both the idle RPM and the WOT RPM. I have no idea what speed the engine is running with the prop that came on my used motor. Everything seems to be working OK, but I probably will invest in a new prop in the spring. Like to get at least close to the correct size and pitch. If the RPM is in range now, I'll just duplicate what I have. It is on a 1986 Weeres pontoon boat that isn't raced very often. <br />One more thing, I did do a search and didn't have much luck. Might be me, might not be in the old posts.

 

[Hooty]

Re: Automotive Dwell-Tach work on '86 40 Evinrude?

Not racin' that pontoon? Guy just set a pontoon speed record. He was running a pair of 300hp Merc's. 81mph.<br />Nope, that tach/dwell meter ain't gonna work for ya, but this will. It's called a Tiny Tach and it costs about forty bucks. Just be sure and tell 'um exactly what engine it's for and how long the wires need to be. I think 8' is standard.<br /><br /> Tiny Tach Web Page <br /><br />g'luck & c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[Lark40]

Re: Automotive Dwell-Tach work on '86 40 Evinrude?

I'll also recommend a TinyTach. Have had one for 3 years.<br /><br />But, check with a local Johnson/Evinrude dealer, as I just found a good used factory tach for $40. Also, eBay is a good source for such items, if you are can be certain the item will work with your engine.

 

[CharlesW]

Re: Automotive Dwell-Tach work on '86 40 Evinrude?

Thank y'all.<br />I will check with my Evinrude mechanic and see what they might have in the back room. If that doesn't work out, the Tiny Tach sounds like an option. The only thing I have heard negative about them is that when the battery goes dead, the unit is scrap. The battery supposedly is not field replaceable. Three years is longer than I was led to belive the battery would last. As usual, the expert giving me that information had never had one. <br />Also, the 81 mph seems like a real stretch for my little 40. 18 would probably be more like it.<br /><br />Charles <br /><br />Edit: Just checked the web-site. 5 years is the expected battery life.<br />C.