'07 200hp Optimax, jack plate, water pressure gauge?

[tal]

Planning on installing a jack plate on 2101 Mako equipped with 200hp optimax. I think instead of going with the level gauge option on the jack plate, I'd rather go with a water pressure gauge so I know the engine is still getting water. I believe the small gray tube is already run up to the controls in the center console. Provided this is the case, will this work as like I'm thinking in regards to providing a consistent water reading until the engine gets jacked too far? I know there's electronics to plug into the Merc that do this, probably more accurate, but I'm not interested in the price to go that route.

 

[achris]

Re: '07 200hp Optimax, jack plate, water pressure gauge?

Water pressure gauge is way the best way to go.... You need to know if you're jacked too high, and the water pressure is the quickest way to do that... Just make sure the pick up point in the engine is at the top of the block, or as close to it as you can get.

Some boats have the end of a water tube pointing up and over the side (from the centre console). The driver knows he's lost water if there isn't a squirt going over the side.

Chris........

 

[tal]

Re: '07 200hp Optimax, jack plate, water pressure gauge?

Cool, I was thinking it was the best way to go as well. I'm not quite sure about the pickup being at the top of the block. I "think" I saw a small gray tube already running up through the bulkhead harness into the transom but I might be mistaken. I was thinking this was its intended use. I'll double check to make sure I'm not seeing things.

On a side note, I've removed and installed outboards before, but I haven't messed with one this new. What's the recommended way of hooking a hoist to this outboard? I can't recall seeing hooks or anything on the block and I don't want to break anything. On my old Johnny I just wrapped a tow strap around it and up we went.