380 Engine Synchroniser

[Sundancer1344]

I have a 2007 Sundancer 380.(twin Horizon 8.1's) I would like to install an engine synchroniser. Any suggestions out there? I know it's an option for the 380's, not sure what manufacturer Sea Ray uses. Thanks.
Tom

 

[Jimmy Buoy]

I just installed one on my boat and am quite impressed with it. Here's the link...

http://www.sturdycorp.com/gallery/detail.aspx?id=6630

After comparing the two major suppliers (Glendinning vs Sturdy's) I decided to go with the newer Sturdy Accusync product. It was less money and seemed to be simpler to operate.

I completed the installation myself, but had consultation from Stephen Stidd from Sturdy's office which was most helpful. Stephen made sure that I got the right model for the 8.1 engines which actually was the DIESEL unit. The hardest part was finding the Aux Tach wire coming off the engine's ECM, and there's lots of wires from which to choose!

Once installed, it's very easy to use. When you're ready to get on plane simply turn the Sync Switch ON and use both throttles together to get on plane and then cruise. The engines will quickly sync to exactly the same RPM's within seconds and then stay there. Once arriving back at the marina, simply turn the Sync Switch OFF and you're back to normal independent throttle control. :thumbsup:

Let me know if you're going this direction and I'll share more details to help you complete the installation. (I'm not affiliated with Sturdy Products, just an immediate fan!)

 

[Sundancer1344]

Jim,
Thank you for the information on the Accusync. I have decided to go with the Accusync rather then the Glendinning. Any additional information would be appreciated. Approx. cost?
Thanks Again,
Tom

 

[Jimmy Buoy]

Tom,

I'll look up the purchase price for you at the office tomorrow, but I think it was $350 - $400. I had done some searching on the net at the time, and saw a boater's comments about this unit and that Sturdy had a booth at some boat show with a "boat show discount". After reading that, I decided to call the company and ask if I could get the same price as the boat show discount. They were fine with that and even said, "the boat show price is now our normal sale price" (due to the economy).

The most challenging part of the installation is determining the location of the unit in the ER. One engine's throttle cable must be detached and connected to the unit. A new (not included) cable must also be connected to the other end of the unit AND to the engine. I found it best to connect the existing throttle cable to the unit, then move it around the ER to find the most logical mounting place.

You need two + 12Vt sources for the unit. One that is energized with the ignition and one that is energized with a "SYNC ON" switch at the helm. There are various red +12vt ignition only sources available from unused engine harnesses on the 8.1 engine - so that's easy. For the sync switch - I cheated a bit on that one...
My helm had a "blank" labeled "Engine Sync" (must have been optional equipment for this boat). It also had an existing switch for the "Bait Tank Pump" that worked, but was not used. I swapped these, disconnected the pumps ground wire, traced the +12vt wire in the ER going to the pump and tapped into it for the Sync Unit. If you have any switches on your helm not being used, it can make things much easier!

The sync needs a ground. There was a spare ground on the back of my engine that is normally used to provide a ground to a stern drive. I used it for the sync. It was a single black wire with a fitting on the end that looked like a "c" or an open circle.

Now for the secret that isn't in any manual... Each engine needs to send a tach signal to the sync unit. The 8.1's have each provided an "Alternate Tach" wire that can be used for this. Directly underneath the engine's computer, you will find a lone grey wire with a round rubber plug on the end. Remove the rubber plug, take it to your local auto parts store and they'll match it to the appropriate sized metal male plug. Attach a wire to the male plug and the other end to the appropriate connections on the sync unit.

The last step was to measure for the new throttle cable. I used some co-axial tv cable to mimic throttle cable, held it in place ensuring a kink free route, marked it for length, then measured the marked cable. The cables are readily available at various lengths. I needed a 9' cable for mine (about $50).

I was expecting more drag from the "follower" engine due to the additional cable length and sync unit connections, but there is little noticeable difference the two throttles.

Sorry for the long winded response!

Anytime you need help, just PM me!

 

[Sundancer1344]

Jim,
Great info. I will soon contact Sturdy to purchase the correct unit for my Sundancer 380 8.1's. I'll keep you posted.
Thanks Again
Tom

 

[Jimmy Buoy]

Just checked my receipt. I paid $400 including shipping last fall.