www.iFourWinns.com

Hello all! I just bought a 2000 230 Horizon w/ the 5.7 GSI motor. It has the VDO gauges which I know are a problem. I have two questions. First being that the battery gauge moves when I put the key in the ignition and turn on the boat, but it doesn't move much past the 10 volts. I know this is wrong b/c both batteries are brand new and I have tested both batteries. Also since I just bought this boat and added sub/amp w/ a second battery I went ahead and replaced the alternator as a precaution. I know they are getting a charge. The gauge cluster has the additional ground added. The second problem is that my speedo is about 12-15 mph off. At WOT it says I'm about 32 MPH when I check it on my phones I'm around 45-48 which is right where I should be. Any help would be great!! Thanks

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1996 4 Winns Horizon 170 SOLD
1997 4 Winns Sundowner 205 SOLD
2000 4 Winns Horizon 230 CURRENT
Tow Vehicle: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited SOLD
1999 Chevy Tahoe 4x4 SOLD
2003 GMC Yukon XL 2500 6.0

Can you describe how you tested the new batts and how you've verified the alternator output? How are all the connections - clean, tight, corrosion-free?

On the speedo, what type of pickup do you have? If it's a pitot tube, most likely the pickup itself is clogged (common), the tube between the pickup and speedo is loose on one of the fittings or has developed a pinhole or crack, or, the speedo itself isn't working right. If you have a paddle wheel pickup, the wheel probably needs replaced.

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Mike
2005 Four Winns 230/240
VP 5.7GXi/DP
1998 F-150 XLT
Boat Pic

I replaced the alternator, and both batteries are brand new. I also used my battery tester on both batteries as well as using it on the alternator while running. All tested good. All the connections are clean as I just replaced the battery terminals and cables when I installed my battery switch. So I'm starting to believe that it has something to do with the infamous gauge cluster, just curious if anyone else has had this issue before.

I have the paddle wheel pickup, so I guess I will add that to the list of stuff I will replace when I have the time and the money.

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1996 4 Winns Horizon 170 SOLD
1997 4 Winns Sundowner 205 SOLD
2000 4 Winns Horizon 230 CURRENT
Tow Vehicle: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited SOLD
1999 Chevy Tahoe 4x4 SOLD
2003 GMC Yukon XL 2500 6.0

It does sound more like the cluster then. And you might wait to get that resolved in case it's affecting the speedo too. Of course make sure your connections are good at the paddle wheel (probably done already).

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Mike
2005 Four Winns 230/240
VP 5.7GXi/DP
1998 F-150 XLT
Boat Pic

Thanks Mike that's what I'm thinking as well, just wanted someone else's two cents worth.

_________________
1996 4 Winns Horizon 170 SOLD
1997 4 Winns Sundowner 205 SOLD
2000 4 Winns Horizon 230 CURRENT
Tow Vehicle: 2007 Toyota Tundra Limited SOLD
1999 Chevy Tahoe 4x4 SOLD
2003 GMC Yukon XL 2500 6.0