Engine/Tach Diagnostics and Tools

[CSANDIFER]

I found out recently that my OMC tach was set to a 4 when it should be set to a 6. I wanted to get a tach meter, timing light and compression gauge. I came across the it below and wanted some opinions if this is a good start for an outboard diagnostic kit. I already have a digital fluke meter. Motor is an OMC 124 V4. Thanks<br /><br />5-PC. TEST AND TUNE-UP KIT <br />Tests all 4-, 6- and 8-cylinder and rotary engines and all ignitions <br />Comes complete with professional-quality components to make tune-ups a snap for anyone. Hand-held engine analyzer—large 4" jeweled D'Arsonal meter movement for accuracy; easy-to-read color-coded scales; functions include high tach, low tach, dwell, amps, ohms; 5' test leads and external shunt for amp testing; powered by one AA battery (included). Timing light—Xenon bulb for easy timing of spark plug firing; inductive pick-up for easy hook up. Compression gauge—for 14- and 18-mm spark plug holes. Easy-to-read 2-1/2" diam. gauge; 12" flexible hose. Vacuum/fuel pump tester—2-1/2" diam. Gauge; 22" neoprene hose with adapter. Remote starter switch—lets you stop/start engine from outside vehicle; 3' leads and clip-on connectors. All components fit in carrying case.

 

[petryshyn]

Re: Engine/Tach Diagnostics and Tools

Hi HYDROSPORT:<br /><br />Sounds like you found an old automotive combo...Gotta watch for RPM issues. If the tach function uses the primary coil for signal, it may not work on CDI's. If the tach relies on the inductive pickup, it'll probably read double of actual speed. Being as how it reads dwell, I suspect its from the old auto days. The timing light may work on some marine, but not all. The vacuum pressure gauge (if accurate around the 1-3psi range) will be useful. The remote start is OK providing its hooked up correctly.(if hooked wrong, it'll be your worst nightmare)<br /><br />Fluke is good!<br /><br />Good troubleshooting!

 

[CAPTBLACKSMARINE]

Re: Engine/Tach Diagnostics and Tools

IN ORDER TO DO IGNITION SYSTEM DIAGNOSTICS WITH A DIGITAL VOLT/OHM METER YOU WILL NEED TO BUY A DVA ADAPTER SEPERATELY BUT NOT ALL METERS WILL EXCEPT THEM THOUGH THERE ARE SOME THAT WILL .I USE A FLUKE THAT CAN DO THIS AND MORE IT ALSO READS ENG TEMPS RPMS THE RPM INDUCTIVE PICK UP IS ALSO OPTIONAL ,VOLTS,OHMS,AMPS ETC. BUT FAIR WARNING THIS METER WILL COST YOU 500.00 PLUS WHERE EVER YOU FIND IT BUT IF YOU REALLY WANT AN ALL IN ONE METER FOR OUTBOARD DIAGNOSTICS IT IS WELL WORTH THE MONEY BEST I CAN REMEMBER I PAID AROUND 800.OO FOR MINE WITH THE EXTRA OPTIONS BUT I HAVE BEEN WELL SATISFIED .

 

[seahorse5]

Re: Engine/Tach Diagnostics and Tools

Hydrosport,<br /><br />Which model Fluke do you have?<br /><br />For troubleshooting, forget the automotive stuff. Get a quality timing lite that will work at 6000 rpm for a 2 cycle motor, 12000 for a 4 stroke. Get a plain lite, you do not need the timing advance indicator. You also need an adjustable spark checker, 3/8 to 1/2 gap, a digital portable tach for setting carbs and idle, good compression gauge, a CD peak reading voltmeter of a DVA adapter for your Fluke, and a remote starter.<br /><br />Most of these you can get from Precision Mfg. and Sales. www.precisionmfgsales.com 1-800-237-5647

 

[clanton]

Re: Engine/Tach Diagnostics and Tools

Precision in Clearwater FL. has the best deal,on the Fluke 88 with tach and DAV adapter, Also look at www.esitest.com, and www.stevensinstrument.com .