Removing Gauges

[MattB92]

Maybe a stupid question, but hoping someone can help me out. I'm in the middle of updating everything at my helm. I really don't know a lot about how gauges work, and instead of searching the internet for hours I would rather just ask you guys

I am wanting to remove my gauges to wrap the panel up like you can see I've done with my rocker switch panel. Is this as easy as removing all the wires and gauges, wrapping the panel, then re-installing all the the gauges? Or will I be getting into Re-calibrating everything?

Now, since I will be having these off, why not replace them right? Kind of thinking about doing that as well, then I'm assuming I will need to re-calibrate and do something with the senders? (not sure how those work either lol)

Any insight would be appreciated

Before:

After:

gauges

 

[Lazy Daze]

Zero re-cal needed - remove and replace. The only tricky thing is making sure to put all the wires back on the right spot. With the way SR does the wiring, you're pretty much guaranteed to get the proper wires near the correct gauge - you just need to make sure every wire gets back on the right post. Take this opportunity to clean all contact areas real well.

Take more pics and label everything. Masking tape works well. You can even use a "code" on the wire connector cover and the gauge, itself - use a sharpie.

 

[Skybolt]

Just a side note, if your going to replace the gauges with new ones, make sure they are of the same manufacture. otherwise you might need to replace the sending units as well. Even with in the same manufacturer you might want to verify the sender types supported.

 

[hughespat57]

When re-installing I would consider sealing the top edge with a non-adhesive caulk or a light bead of silicone. Those gauges have a lot of corrosion and salt on all the terminals.

 

[MattB92]

@hughespat57 As far as I know this boat has never seen saltwater. But that's just word of mouth from previous owner (I am 3rd owner). I will definitely clean up the terminals and reseal the top edge.

Thanks all for the tips!

 

[Skybolt]

... I will definitely clean up the terminals and reseal the top edge. ...

You also might want to use a rubber seal instead of chalking. I have found this to be of great use. It splits in half and stands up to water and sun very well.

 

[MattB92]

You also might want to use a rubber seal instead of chalking. I have found this to be of great use. It splits in half and stands up to water and sun very well.[/user]

Nice, thanks again.

Looks like there is some caulking around the diameter of my gauges? think that's necessary?

 

[Skybolt]

Nice, thanks again.

Looks like there is some caulking around the diameter of my gauges? think that's necessary?

I have never seen gauges caulked in. Might have been from an over zealous previous owner. I have seen o-rings around them on open bridges though.

 

[ohioboater]

Where do you purchase replacement gauges, exact equipment if possible? I have seen a site that refurbishes the glass/covers, but not where to find the gauges. I have several that have started acting up (but the same information displays accurately on the center digital readout) Specifically asking for 04 240 Sundeck, but guessing places that sell them sell for various models.

 

[spikedaddy99]

Start with Flounder Pounder.

 

[ohioboater]

I have been to that page (which appears to be same as searay-parts.com) and their gauges, even though they look like mine, say only for boat years mid 90's to 2002...nothing from any other year ranges

 

[bbwhitejr]

I just priced them for our “ new to us boat” from SR.

4 in 1s are $250 ea. Not to bad....tachs are over $500.

I had rotator cuff surgery 2 weeks ago and when I get out of this sling, I am going to hunt wires, swap gauges around, clean grounds, and really see what I have.

Bennett