Speedometer Question

[answered prayer]

Iam finally going to replace the speedometer on my boat, it has not worked since I got it. The boat is a 19'<br />Bayliner, with 125hp Force motor.I think it has the original prop. Can anyone tell me what the approximate<br />max. speed would be, so I can get the right speedometer.<br />Thanks

 

[Gunny77]

Re: Speedometer Question

You wont be going over 50 mph.<br />Get or borrow a GPS and get an accurate reading.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: Speedometer Question

There are two main types of speedo's: Those with a pulse sender telling how fast a small paddle-wheel is turned by the water and those with a pitot tube, telling the amount of pressure made by the water you're passing. The latter is cheaper and less accurate.<br /><br />The issue has been up in this forum before (search). Remember to look for a GPS (ebay) as this can prove as cheap and is more accurate (even gives you more features).

 

[neumanns]

Re: Speedometer Question

First I would determine if the speedo works by removing it. Assuming it is a pitot style apply air presure to the inlet ( a strong breath or slightly more) have some one help you. If the needle moves the head is fine and fixing your spedo may be as simple as replacing the air tubing at an approximate cost of 5-10 dollers.<br /><br />I find my pitot style is always within 10 % and that is always on the low side therfore she is plenty accurate for my needs.

 

[gaugeguy]

Re: Speedometer Question

If using air pressure from a compressor, make sure it is regulated below. Just 5 psi will bring you to around 20mph on the dial. If you hit a 60 mph speedo with greater than 50 psig it will peg the speedo and cause the inner gear to jump a few teeth, and then you will need to replace it.

 

[Solittle]

Re: Speedometer Question

I have yet to see a speedometer that is worth a darn. Use a GPS. They are accurate to the 10th.

 

[neumanns]

Re: Speedometer Question

I also have a gps but tell me this, Unless you are using it to navigate {ie. time bearing speed} or troll, exactily what good is a speed measured to the tenth other than to say....Hey look bubba wees going 32.7 mph aint that just fassinatin.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: Speedometer Question

The GPS offers a number of benefits. If you do only use the speedo you will get more accuracy than you need for everyday use - still, this is important when wondering if your gear performs as usual.<br /><br />The alternative (pressure speedo) is not good value as the reading is far from accurate. The better speedo's costs at least the same as entry-level GPS's so why not get the most out of the investment?<br /><br />You don't have to enjoy ALL the features at first (along the way more may prove interesting).