1985 Mercury 50HP 2-Stroke - Tach Recommendations

[joewg3]

Hi All - I have a 1985 Mercury 50HP 2-Stroke on my 16' Alumacraft. I'd like to install a tach on my console. I'm reading conflicting info on what actually works properly. I have a basic tach with the wire that winds around the #1 plug wire on an old 14HP Evinrude, but I've seen these may not work with my motor. Any recommendations? I'm new to Outboards in general. Thanks!

 

[merc850]

You need an Alternator Driven Tach that connects to one of the yellow leads from the alternator, this is the standard tach today. They sell some on this site

Boat Tachometers - iboats.com

Boat Tachometers - Since 1998, iboats is the most trusted water lifestyle online store for boat parts and accessories, boats for sale, and forums. Enjoy great priced products with fast shipping.

ww2.iboats.com

I went to a Merc dealer and got a "pull" for a few dollars 20 yrs. ago and It's still working.

 

[BWR1953]

Hi All - I have a 1985 Mercury 50HP 2-Stroke on my 16' Alumacraft. I'd like to install a tach on my console. I'm reading conflicting info on what actually works properly. I have a basic tach with the wire that winds around the #1 plug wire on an old 14HP Evinrude, but I've seen these may not work with my motor. Any recommendations? I'm new to Outboards in general. Thanks!

I have the same motor and you'll need a tach that will work with a 12-pole stator.