Engine Temperature

[The Maggie]

Having had 2 high temperature alarms, I would like to purchase and install a temperature gauge. I also need to know where the sensor would attach to the engine (R21-EC, Volvo Penta D1-30 engine). The raw water flow rate seems very slow at about 1 gallon in 2 minutes, so I'm following Andrew's flushing instructions of April 12, 2011. Any advice welcomed.
The Maggie, Sechelt, British Columbia.

 

[Capt’nKarl]

I'm not sure where you would place the sensor but have you checked the condition of the water pump impeller? A good flushing like you're planning may also benefit. I've only had one high temp warning and that happened when my water pump belt broke. Now I have an inline monitor that signals if there is no flow so you can shut down the engine before it overheats.

Cheers!
Karl

 

[daviduphoff]

I installed a temperature gauge on my 21. It took longer to clean up the sawdust from drilling where I put the gauge than the entire install. I wish I could remember where I put the sensor, but mine is a Yanmar so it's of no consequence. If you happen down to Anacortes it's sitting on the lot at Banana Belt Boats for sale. I did have to remove the fridge to run the wire. I also wired the gauge light to come on with the nav lights and the other gauges. It is a great addition.

 

[Andrew Custis]

Hey there. I would suggest installing a NMEA 2000 gateway made by Volvo that could allow your Garmin unit to monitor engine temperature along with a few other things. I know Baz had this installed on his R21EC and he might be able to remember exactly what it would open up for you. You would need to install a NMEA 2000 backbone to wire this gateway into and tie the chartplotter to it but a nice simple and easy way to unlock some cool features.

 

[The Maggie]

Thanks very much Capt'n Karl, David & Andrew.
This afternoon I took off the cover plate at entry to the heat exchanger and removed parts of last years impeller. Raw water flow is now very much improved. I will still look to your suggestions of flow monitoring or Nema since I don't want a surprise like this again. Thanks Guys.
Stu of The Maggie.

 

[Captain Nice]

A Volvo temp gauge can be connected directly to the tachometer with no NMEA required.

CN