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My dash volt gauge reads approx 11 volts while connected to shore power and while cruising (1999 268). Portable DC "plug in" gauge reads 12.6 V at dock. Multimeter voltage reading directly from both batteries also reads 12.6V. Is there a reason this would happen? Can voltage gauge be calibrated? This is my first "big boat" and I really appreciate this forum. I have learned a ton already. Thanks.

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1999 Vista 268

What boat (besides Vista) do you have? I have a 2003 248 Vista and had to replace my volt gauge this off season. Problem I had, Four Winns put their logo on the gauges so I ended up buying a completely new set of gauges. I'd send you my gauge but apparently we had issues with the same gauge. Long story short, I don't think you can calibrate it and I can tell you that gauge has gone bad on my boat.

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-Tony
2016 Robalo R200 w/Yahama 200!

Previous boats:
2003 Four Winns 248 Vista - sold
1994 Sunbird Corsair 200 - sold
1980 Checkmate Predictor - sold

Before writing off the gauge, you need to check the actual voltage at the gauge, bearing in mind the +ve comes from the fusebox ( via the ignition switch), but also importantly, the ground wire (-ve) also comes from a busbar fitted to the fusebox. A poor connection in either of the two sides can give a voltage drop. Also, there is probably a 2 pin connector, red and black wires ( maybe yellow) that connects to the ignition switch. That connector can work loose and cause some very strange effects.

Thanks Guys. I previously had a Maxum bowrider. I will check connections behind the gauge and replace it if connections are ok. I don't think my 1999 has FW logo on gauges, so I have that going for me...
Thanks again,
Greg

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1999 Vista 268

As Graham said take a good look at the connections on the back of that gauge, if they are Medallion gauges they used a stud that comes out of the gauge and the wiring terminal is a right angle connector. The stude can get corroded. These gauges did not use ring style connectors like Faria gauges. If you have the old fashioned glass fuses they came have oxidation that will cause problems.

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88 Four Winns 200 Horizon
4.3 OMC Cobra-4bbl
2002 Walker Bay 10/2012 Suzuki 2.5
2008 Walker Bay 8

1998 Jeep Grand Cherokee 4.0/Selectrac
2007 Jeep Grand Cherokee 5.7 Hemi/Quadradrive II