Engine gauges C30 MKIII gone bad

[AXEL]

I recently bought this C30 MKIII. During the survey it was pointed out that the volt meter was bad, pegged to the right. The voltage was measured at the alternator and read 14 volts. A few weeks into ownership and now the fuel gauge is pegged to the left (empty). I know I have a half tank. There is condensation visible in the gauges. Is this common? Is there a fix or replace?

 

[JohnVTX]

It's an MK I not III. MK I were built all the way to the end of 1985. Then came the II's. III's were not built until the 90's.
It sounds to me like it may be a grounding issue. Check all your connections.

 

[rpell1@msn.com]

...Had a similar problem. Turned out to be the dashboard breaker. May be the same for you. Worth a try. Otherwise, as JohnVTX commented, it is probably a ground problem. Electrical issues are always the most frustrating. Good Luck.

 

[The Garbone]

Sounds like a good excuse to buy a nice multi meter.

 

[AXEL]

It's an MK I not III. MK I were built all the way to the end of 1985. Then came the II's. III's were not built until the 90's.
It sounds to me like it may be a grounding issue. Check all your connections.

I will breakout the multi meter. BTY, not sure what you mean John, my boat is a 2000 MKIII.

 

[JohnVTX]

I will breakout the multi meter. BTY, not sure what you mean John, my boat is a 2000 MKIII.

Your profile page says 1977.

 

[AXEL]

Your profile page says 1977.

Thanks for reminding me to update my profile

 

[Skipper]

There is condensation visible in the gauges. Is this common?

Yes. Common and expected. There are breather holes that let moisture out when the instrument heats up from the lighting, etc. The holes also let moisture in. The internals are built to ignore moisture on good instruments.
Mine are brand new. Still condense.

 

[AXEL]

It is disappointing. The replacements are around $50/ea. You would think for that price these things would last. I am going to take them off and put them in a vacuum oven where I work. Hopefully they will come around.