Moisture in gauges

jukes23

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Oct 27, 2008
Messages
34
I have 3 gauges (just installed that have condensation building up on them. Is this caused by them being screwed down to tight or too loose?

Thanks,

Joe
 

a70eliminator

Captain
Joined
Sep 9, 2007
Messages
3,762
Re: Moisture in gauges

Gauges ususally attach from behind with 2 L brackets nutted to posts on the back of the gauge. I don't see how overtightening could cause that, the brackets usually just bend. Are the gauges cheapies like you get at walmart for a car? If the gauges aren't marine quality that could be a problem i don't know for sure.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,074
Re: Moisture in gauges

Even good marine gauges can get condendsation in them. A cure is to place an incandesent light bulb near them and the heat will dry them out.
 

a70eliminator

Captain
Joined
Sep 9, 2007
Messages
3,762
Re: Moisture in gauges

Hmmm, never ever have had any condensation not even on my 68 MFG gauges, just lucky I guess.
 

jukes23

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Oct 27, 2008
Messages
34
Re: Moisture in gauges

No, they are teleflex marine gauges. I didnt wrench them super tight, so its a little confusing. I could see the water pressure gauge possibly getting condensation on it, but voltmeter and gas gauge?
 

woody66912

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Jul 12, 2008
Messages
690
Re: Moisture in gauges

some times it's just the nature of the boat.you can wire your gauge lites to your ignition so at least when your using the boat the heat from bulbs will keep the moisture out.
 

Gary H NC

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 1, 2005
Messages
8,972
Re: Moisture in gauges

some times it's just the nature of the boat.you can wire your gauge lites to your ignition so at least when your using the boat the heat from bulbs will keep the moisture out.

Thats what i did.Wired them to the switch so the bulbs light up when the key is on.I have one gauge that gets moisture in it and the bulb being on does help it dry out.
 
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