7.4 MPIs to NMEA 2000

[bfernald0]

My last boat (Maxum 2800 SCR) had a 7.4 MPI motor, which has the MEFI3 ECM. I looked high and low for an easy means to obtain the engine data for my NMEA 2000 network. The answer was this product: https://fox-marine.com/index.php?route=product/category&path=81

It was a breeze to install and the inventor is very knowledgeable and helpful if you have problems (I didn't, but spoke to him before purchasing).

Once installed, all the digital engine data is available on your NMEA 2000 gauge or MFD, including fuel flow, temp, oil pressure, etc. etc. etc.

All the about 2004- engines usually output to vessel view or the Volvo equivalent. If you want to get into the digital age with your old 7.4 MPI, check this product out.

 

[Chris-380]

I installed this on each of my 7.4 horizons. LOVE IT!

 

[ttmott]

For those (like myself) whose boat's NMEA2000 network is critical for navigational and operational safety the Fox devices are not suitable for use. They are not NMEA2000 certified consequently exhibit some risk in use. NMEA2000 is an evolving and growing standard. Those that comply and maintain certification to the standard by registration become a part of the format development strategy. Those that do not may become a liability to the evolution and consequently create network problems. Garmin, for example, have propriety PGN's that are unique to their products but are registered with NMEA2000. Who would know if a device would be fully compatible to operate on the network with Garmin products if not registered through the common certification organization? I hope Fox becomes a certified member as their products fill a needed gap. Be informed....

From the Fox web site:
Products listed as NMEA 2000 or N2k compatible are neither registered nor certified by the National Marine Electronics Association. Claims of compatibility simply mean the products were designed to function on a CAN Bus operating at 250kbps and that data is organized in publicly available parameter group number formats allowing other N2k compatible devices and displays to interpret the data.

 

[bfernald0]

I would imagine the volume he's selling at doesn't merit the cost of certification. In any event in the two years I had it on my boat I never had an issue and I had everything including GPS on the network.

 

[370Dancer]

And, you could bypass hooking them into your N2K if you were that concerned, and just use the Bluetooth enabled app on your tablet/phone. I have early prototypes, to the latest versions with oil senders, hooked into my N2K with nary an issue. 5 years? At least. It is all about the quantities vs. the cost of certifying and staying certified.

 

[bfernald0]

I had forgotten that it's also got the bluetooth capability.

 

[Chris-380]

lots of info on the bluetooth also