Engine Instruments - Condensation

[Chris Murray]

When I bought my last boat in 1989, it had Volvo engine instrumentation which regularly fogged up. I understand that Volvo has long since solved this problem by badging VDO instruments, which have a double lens (i.e. two sets of glass), which properly seals the instrument from the front.

So why, when I went on a RIB recently, using instruments supplied with an Evinrude Fitch (sorry - I think the spelling is suspect) engine, does every one of its instruments have condensation in them? Surely, they can't be very old?

I think it is pathetic that in 2005, some instruments still have this problem!

I have ordered a 250 E-tec with my new RIB but I am now concerned that I shall be looking at a lot of condensation, instead of meaningful readings. This also means that the working parts will be exposed to dampness and may ultimately become unreliable.

Does anyone have experience of the current Evinrude instruments following damp weather? Do yours "fog" or do they remain completely dry inside?

A further concern about this is that if Evinrude can't address a simple issue like this, just how much attention have they paid to the engine itself.

Whilst on the subject, the last two Evinrudes I experienced - a 250 E-tec that simply wouldn't start for a while, and the earlier 225 Fitch which conked out at low speed on several occasions, does little to convince me that I have made the right choice of engine.

But then the Verados don't seem to be without their problems (at least in the US) either.

It's about time the engine manufacturers got their act together!

Chris.

[PeterR]

I too have condensation OK whilst in warenty but then what.Having problems seem to be only bearable if sorted out .How competant is your local dealer .Mines not that hot.Last sevice charged fort 3 hrs labour joke cos the didnt even grease steering and outboard.(it was first 20 hr service)Ended up buying grease gun and doing it myself.

[Chris Murray]

Originally Posted by no fear

I too have condensation OK whilst in warenty but then what.Having problems seem to be only bearable if sorted out .How competant is your local dealer .Mines not that hot.Last sevice charged fort 3 hrs labour joke cos the didnt even grease steering and outboard.(it was first 20 hr service)Ended up buying grease gun and doing it myself.

That's interesting - So you have the same problems with the Ficht instruments. At the moment, I have a new boat on order for next April, which is due to get a 250 E-tec. However, if the instrumentation suffers from this type of problem, I am tempted to modify my order. They must have been making instruments for years, so there is really no excuse for letting dampness in.

I wonder if I can get VDO engine instruments and let Evinrude keep their mickey mouse units?

If more of us let manufacturers know what we think of their shoddy kit, perhaps they might do something about it!

Chris.

[bogib]

I do not think Evinrude has change to fog free gauges so you will get foggy instruments

Bogi

[mark-f]

yep my opti is only a month old and already smartcraft instruments fog up as well :-)

[Seb]

...And Opti gauges are made by VDO i do believe....!

As for E-tec gauges, i think Faria are the manufacturers so checking out their website may give further details about how they are made and whether or not they are anti-fogging etc...?

Also, note that moisture often enters gauges from the rear as console interiors are often damp. You will find that on even the most expensive VDO marine gauges, there are un-plugged holes in the rear for optional warning LED's and the like.

I've personally seen very few RIBs which have had condensation free gauges...

Cheers

[Chris Murray]

Thanks Guys,

I guess I shall have to put up with it then.

Cheers!

Chris.

[Richard B]

Originally Posted by Seb

I've personally seen very few RIBs which have had condensation free gauges...

Never seen a set of Yamaha Gauges then Seb? ours are condensation free, anyway! (that was a smug smiley).

[Seaharrier]

Originally Posted by bogib

I do not think Evinrude has change to fog free gauges so you will get foggy instruments

Bogi

Indeed, we have foggy Evinrude gauges with our E-Tec. But it comes from the inside of the console...

[bogib]

Surely the condensation on the instrument is coming from the inside not outside, one solution has been to out a small fan behind the dashbord also we have supplied blow heaters that has been installed also behind the dashboard both giving satisfactory results keeping the gauges readable.

Bogi