Honda Hour meter not working

[jaysbay]

I just purchased a new to me boat with a 2010 honda 90 4 stroke, The tach/hour meter was not working and I traced down the issue and now I have power to the tach and i believe it will work when i start the engine but when I turn the ignition on it lights the gauge and the needle jumps a tad , that's why i think the tach it will work. Although the hours indicator does not show anything,Was wondering if anyone could give me some tips to try.
Thank you guys in advance this is my first time posting.
Johnny

 

[ahicks]

The hour meter is like a light bulb. It needs a hot and a ground to function. Many will use the hot and ground from the tach to do that.

 

[GA_Boater]

I take it this a combo tach and hour meter. Start the motor and see if the hours count up.

 

[jaysbay]

Thanks guys, I will try starting the motor, the only reason I didn't start it is because I have the boat torn apart .
Johnny