Need instruments?

eharris · 03-22-2009, 07:50 PM

I have an Alumaweld Talon with a 60hp Mercury. I have read different comments about wot and hours on engines and wondered how important these are to know. I know the engine hours are important when going to sale the boat and also to do routine maintenance. I don't use the boat a lot of hours each year and figure I should do maintenance at least once a year regardless, right? Should I get a tachometer and hour meter and install? Are they there somewhere I don't know about (not on dash)?

Evan Harris

Poindexter · 03-22-2009, 08:14 PM

Tach is nice for knowing where your RPM's are while trolling, but I can do without that. Hour meter, though, I think is critical in resale and maintenance. Otherwise, what are you going to tell a prospective buyer? Also, how do you know for sure when you're at the 20 hr, 50 hr, 100 hr marks for routine maintenance?

Starfish · 03-23-2009, 06:49 PM

I'm the opposite. I think tach is critical but hourmeter is optional. Maybe that's because I've always had a tach but never had an hourmeter!

eharris · 03-23-2009, 07:16 PM

Starfish, what do you use the tach for other than prop selection?

Give me some help guys.

Evan Harris

Starfish · 03-23-2009, 09:10 PM

Mostly for the prop selection, but also for consistent cruising speed and efficiency. I usually watch the tach more than the speedometer.