Merc/electrical question

Fountainhead · 05-28-2001, 10:43 AM

I have a 79 merc 80 horse, I am using a Garmin 160 FF. Whenever I run the motor and FF at the same time the voltage display on the FF goes over 16.5 which shuts off the FF. I usually troll with my kicker but would be nice if it worked with the Merc, anyone have any quick fixes for this overcharging? Thanks! F

FishinMission · 05-28-2001, 10:51 AM

I think I'd try testing the voltage with a voltmeter to be sure your finder's reading correct. This ought to narrow down whether it's your finder or your elecrical system that's at fault. If it's your finder...you know what to do. If it's your ignition system..well I couldn't say for sure what the problem would be. Any mechanics out there wanna ad to this??

Doubletake · 05-28-2001, 10:56 AM

I had an 89 Merc. 80hp and had the same problem with my Humminbird FF. I ran with my running lights on and the ff quit shutting itself off due to too much voltage. If I shut the lights off it would shut down the ff. Good luck

Doubletake

boater · 05-28-2001, 01:44 PM

[ 05-29-2001: Message edited by: boater ]

Fountainhead · 05-28-2001, 08:19 PM

Oh, it is hooked directly to the battery. Guess I'll try the lights and stereo thing. Thanks guys! F

bait boy · 05-29-2001, 03:33 AM

Ive got an idea for ya. check your voltage regulator on the motor for the proper output voltage. if its putting out the right stuff try to hook up your FF to the accesory panel it should be getting a more consistent battery voltage and the fuses inline should tone it down a bit. if that doesn't work go buy a voltage regulator at the auto parts store and put it inline to your FF. Thats much better than just trying to draw your battery down by turning your lights on because then your battery won't get a proper charge.

Thats straight from the electricians mouth.
(no not me the guy sitting next to me is a sparky)