I noticed my tachometer on my C30mkIII would operate when I just started the engine. After a few seconds it would go to zero. I checked the wiring on the instrument panel and the connections seem tight. Where is the pickup of the tachometer on the engine? Any other electrical things I should check out?
Tachometer Problems
- Thread starter Jim S.1435
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Actually, diesel tachs are triggered
by the alternator load I can't remember enough more right now to be of much help. I'll get back to you as I remember more if someone else doesn't, anyway it's an electrical problem.
by the alternator load I can't remember enough more right now to be of much help. I'll get back to you as I remember more if someone else doesn't, anyway it's an electrical problem.
Tachometer and alternator
Check the tension of your alternator belt. A loose belt can cause slipping, which means the alternator won't turn, and you won't get a signal to the tachometer. I had this happen to me a couple years ago. After much head scratching, I discovered and tightened the alternator belt, and the tachometer began working again. If the belt is tight, then a "blip" of the throttle should get the alternator "engaged" (not sure of the proper term here) and sending its signal to the tach. This allows the engine to be started without the alternator engaged and trying to generate current, thus reducing the load on the starting system. Revving up the throttle after the engine is started and running properly will engage the alternator, and the tach should show rpms at that point. Randy
Check the tension of your alternator belt. A loose belt can cause slipping, which means the alternator won't turn, and you won't get a signal to the tachometer. I had this happen to me a couple years ago. After much head scratching, I discovered and tightened the alternator belt, and the tachometer began working again. If the belt is tight, then a "blip" of the throttle should get the alternator "engaged" (not sure of the proper term here) and sending its signal to the tach. This allows the engine to be started without the alternator engaged and trying to generate current, thus reducing the load on the starting system. Revving up the throttle after the engine is started and running properly will engage the alternator, and the tach should show rpms at that point. Randy
It could be your batteries are fully charged
most likely from being plugged in all week. If the alternator's regulator does not sense that the batteries need to be charged, the tach will read zero. Unplug the boat, turn some loads on (like lights, a fridge if you have one) and see what happens (before you fear the worst).
most likely from being plugged in all week. If the alternator's regulator does not sense that the batteries need to be charged, the tach will read zero. Unplug the boat, turn some loads on (like lights, a fridge if you have one) and see what happens (before you fear the worst).
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