Question about guages and senders

[Fred G]

My depth guage has quit on me, and my yard is having someone see if they can fix it. I asked the yard if it would be cheaper to just replace the guage. They said they prefer to see if it can be fixed because:1) It is an older Datamarine unit (4" round guage), and Datamarine dosn't currently make a direct replacement.2)Different manufacturers use different frequencies, and therefore, there is a good chance I would have to replace the sending unit as well.3)If I need a different sending unit, there is a chance that the shape will be different, which means glassing in the old sending unit's hole in the hull and then cutting a new one.This all sounds logical, but I would just like someone else to tell me "Yes, the marine electronics industry does operate with no real "international standards" for their products, and therefore all of the above is true."Anyone know the facts on this?Thanks!

 

[Steve O.]

well...

Unfortunately, most of it is true. You can make a smaller thru-hull cut out larger by fitting a wooden plug first before drilling, or you can just plug the hole and drill one in another location. But the chances of another mfg. transducer working with your readout are slim.

 

[Rich Stidger]

But....

I suspect that it is likely that another transducer will fit the same diameter hole as the existing. And that is IF the whole system is a bust and you have to replace everything..Given the yard's labor rate, and the rate for someone to fix the display head, I think a case can be made for getting a new unit. I understand that the display unit hole is an issue, but a bezel could be made to cover the existing hole and provide a mount for a new instrument.All this assumes that you will do the work of replacing the instrument. If you are paying the yard in either case then your present course seems OK.If the display head is defective, how about eBay for a replacement?Good luck.

 

[lionel]

Whoah

the other solution is to get your datamarine repaired like I did There are a bunch of electronic store that would do it If you need more infos let me know

 

[Fred G]

Re: Lionel

Hi Lionel, My yard is having someone try to fix it, and that will probably be the solution. What I was looking for was validation that having the guage repaired was the best route to take, If the marine electronic industry had set standards for through hull sizes, and transmission protocols, then I would weigh the option of installing all new gear. What I needed you guys to tell me was that the Boat Yard was not trying to pull a fast one on me when they said that the sizes and types of marine electronics are not directly compatible. I appreciate your offer, and if my yard says that their guy cannot repair the guage, then I would definitely appreciate your advice and contacts to get it fixed!Thanks!

 

[Fred G]

Thanks guys!

Hi guys, Thanks for all of your responses. If the guage can be repaired, then I will go that route. If not, then I will deal with it when it gets hauled out this winter.Thanks again!