Smartcraft Question

[Mark5795]

I have a 2008 Basscat Cougar with a 2008 Optimax Pro XS. It was built with analog gauges and I want to add or replace one with a smartcraft SC1000 monitor. I want to be able to see engine temp. I was thinking of taking the tach out if the monitor will also show the RPM's? I have been told the boat was built with the data cable installed. I am still tying to verify that. I have looked and I have a cable that says gauges with maybe 6,7 or 8 wires in it that plugs together under my console. Can anyone tell me exactly what I would need to do and what I would need for hardware?

Am I going in the right direction and is this the easiest way to get some multiple functions with this motor to include engine temp and codes, RPM's and engine hours as well as any other functions. Maybe someone can tell me what else the monitor will give me there is not much I can find on the internet about all of this .

Thanks for all your help

[EuropeanAM]

Mark:

Welcome to BBC!

I would definitely recommend a Smartcraft Instrument.

My recommendation would be to utilize a SEPARATE data cable. This will allow you to continue to utilize any (or all) of your current gauges, IN ADDITION to the Smartcraft Instrument.

They "System Monitor" is available in a small "square" gauge that fits a 2-1/8" hole.

The newer, feature-packed MercMonitor is only about $125 more, and will replace any standard 3-3/8" gauge (such as a standard speedo or tach).

We offer both gauges in a BBC Member package, complete with necessary cable(s).

Feel free to give us a call.

[Mark5795]

It is my understanding that I could utilize my current cable I was told that it has a Merc ignition harness that has SmartCraft data harness “built in” even w/ analog gauges. I was told I could install a junction box and plug the ignition harness into it. Then have an adapter to plug the current analog harness into the junction box that was plugged into the harness. The SC gauge will come with the harness to plug it into the junction box also.. Not sure if the Merc Monitor would work the same or not? I sall this correct? If so is it a standard SC Junction box and what harnesses are needed? If this all correct is it just a plug and play situation?

Thanks again

[EuropeanAM]

It can be done the way you described. Standard junction box applies...

Would need to know whether or not you have a Mercury keyswitch harness, and whether or not the harness contains a terminating resistor (in this case, a blue cap terminating resistor plugged into a "Can 1" harness).

If you can't determine this, it is possible to verify that you "do, or do not" have the terminating resistor utilizing an ohm meter. Unplug the current 10-pin connector that's attached to your dash harness. On the ENGINE side of this plug (female side)... determine which pins connect to the "blue wire and white wire". Read resistance across the two.

120 Ohms Resistance- You need another terminating resistor.
60 Ohms Resistance- You're good to go without another terminating resistor.

And yes, the MercMonitor will work in the same fashion as you've described above.

Let me know what you find- feel free to give us a call if you'd like to obtain what you need.

[Mark5795]

Can you post a pictue of what this resistor looks like? Is it round about 1 inch or so in diameter?

[EuropeanAM]

Don't have a picture on hand... but after our phone conversation, I don't believe you have one there to worry about.

[Mark5795]

Thanks Don for your help, Make me an invoice and shoot it by email and I will send payment along. Mercmonitor, Resistor, 4 place junction and Red bezel can be shipped when it comes later is fine. My email is in my profile.

Thanks again for your help

[Mark5795]

Don,

Thanks for the great service, everything works just as you said. Great price great service.....Sometimes lost these days ....good to see some still know how to treat a customer...

Thanks again....