Optical tach to measure RPMs?

[fortunate2001]

I have a simple LED optical tachometer and would like to measure the RPMs of my new-to-me 4-stroke 5HP Tohatsu. Have seen other posts about inductive tachs, but wondering if there is a way I can use the optical. This meter requires you to put a piece of reflective tape (or find some other shiny spot) that the meter can then measure as it goes round...

 

[RogersJetboat454]

Re: Optical tach to measure RPMs?

I have a simple LED optical tachometer and would like to measure the RPMs of my new-to-me 4-stroke 5HP Tohatsu. Have seen other posts about inductive tachs, but wondering if there is a way I can use the optical. This meter requires you to put a piece of reflective tape (or find some other shiny spot) that the meter can then measure as it goes round...

Yep, put the reflective tape on a part of the flywheel where you can easily shoot the meter at while the engine is running.

 

[fortunate2001]

Re: Optical tach to measure RPMs?

Thanks for the speedy reply! Thought that might be possible, will try that next time out. Planned to measure idle RPMs in neutral and in forward, and WOT in forward, to see if she is getting up to max RPM.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: Optical tach to measure RPMs?

Probaby will need to remove complete rope starter assembly to place reflective tape on flywheel for ease of metering and start engine using a rope roped around the flywheel head.

Happy Boating