The water pressure gauge provides an important function in the function of your boat, monitoring the boat’s impeller and water pump to avoid overheating of your outboard engine. In cases of overheating, the gauge alerts the crew to the resulting decrease in the pressure of the water flow to the engine. Potential causes for the decrease include a blockage in the water tubes, an old impeller or a faulty engine. The water pressure gauge often provides the earliest warning of any of your boat gauges, so it is important to replace a faulty gauge as soon as possible. You can install the gauge yourself fairly easily at a low cost.
Determine where to install the water pressure gauge on the dash or bulkhead. Choose a spot where you can read the gauge easily and avoid locations with wires or hydraulic lines.
Review the measurements of the water pressure gauge. Water pressure gauges usually fit in a 2-1/8 inch-diameter hole, but this can change depending on the manufacturer. Make a hole in the dash or nearby in the bulkhead for the gauge using the saw and the drill motor.
Apply a thin line of silicone sealant to the rim of the gauge. Insert the gauge into the dash and lock in with the U-bracket provided in the kit. Make sure the gauge is straight before tightening the U-bracket.
Go to the engine block and find the water pressure tap. Take off the tap plug using the Allen wrench. Put the water pressure gauge tubing into the tap and use the wrench to tighten the nut. Run the other end of the water pressure gauge tube to the gauge. Screw it into place, and then tighten the nut.
Start the engine and test gauge.
Items you will need
- Water pressure gauge kit
- 2 1/8-inch-diameter holesaw
- Allen wrench set
- Adjustable wrench
- Drill motor