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I have a single engine trawler and I've been thinking there is an independant system for each - just as there are separate dashboard guages for each engine. I think I should put together a poll to determine which features, as well as dual engine support should be included in V1. I've never...

We can definitely keep version 1.0 below $100 if that's the wish. Using serial break-out boards and having two thermocouples pretty much doubles the cost. The benefit to the serial boards is simplifying the code and reducing the number of pins used. For example, a base 16 X 2 display is less...

Attached is the bill of materials and Arduino Uno pin mapping. Cost for the components, including all sensors, display, power supply, enclosures, etc is about $170 plus shipping from a few vendors. I did not yet find a connector strip for the external connections. So probably around $250 by...

Yes, this is how I'm currently using it but I want something without the bulk of the computer. I run the EGT off the arduino and send the data feed to my PC via the USB. I was thinking a future version would host a simple NMEA 0183 stream, or SignalK as @stubones99 recommended.

Lot's of great questions and points. My responses are in line

I totally agree on the right kind of case for the arduino stack. I was thinking there would be terminal block on the outside, like this: http://www.pcb-terminalblock.com/photo/pl1750076-single_level_barrier_pcb_terminal_block_right_angle_pitch_9_525mm_300v_20a.jpg As for the project box, it...

BigJim, Thanks for the info. I know very little about RTDs. Currently I have a low-cost, stainless steel encased Type-K thermocouple for the exhaust. Do you think I should use an RTD instead? I am planning on having the Ardiuno on a bulkhead in the engine room so the wire lengths would not...

This would be the layout of Version 1.0. The basic architecture is to off-load processing to break-out boards. The break out boards do the work and can be queried from Uno. This reduces coding and complexity. This frees up pins and simplifies the construction and cost. Materials cost less...

These are great ideas. The ScanGuage display is similar to what I was thinking. A compact unit with a button to display the next sensor's output. Thanks for the link to it, the user-interface provides some guidance. The PLC route is definitely something to consider. I've used a PLC before...

I put together some thoughts on how to start up this kind of project. I put together a rough draft charter and would appreciate feedback on it if you are interested in either developing the kit or just interested in providing insights on ways to make it better. I couldn't think of a cool name...

The thermocouple I posted includes the converter board, so it should play well with an Arduino. Regarding the resistance/voltage on a k-type thermocouple you are both correct! I respect the analog world, but I grew up digital. Nice link to the hose coupling with the thermocouple adapter...

Basically there are two types of temperature sensors. The typical is the thermocouple, which uses the change in resistance to determine the temperature. The newer style uses an embedded silicon sensor. The newer style is very accurate and the reading is digital. The thermocouple reading is...

Is anyone interested in a DIY engine monitoring system based on the Arduino board? They're cheap and I can program them. Basically I'm thinking of having a board, a simple LCD display and a "next" button. There would be set of sensors, such as tach, oil temp, water temp, boost, EGT, that...

I found spray painting the flywheel with flat black paint, then add the shiny sticker, helps the phototach get a consistent reading. Pretty easy when the engine is warm and running to hit it with a rattle-can. Dries fast too.

Keysdisease, Do you have the specs on your prop? While I have the lesser powered motor I keep my hull as light as possible and am trying to get to a sustainable 12 knots. Sometimes I can get there, others not so much. And when I do, the wake flattens out and steering tightens up a bit...

I've heard very large trim tabs can help. They can. The slower a boat operates the more tab they need, the opposite holds true for faster boats, that's why race boats have small trim tabs. Think fighter jet vs glider, compare wing size. My '78 Mainship has 42 x 1 trim tabs which allow me...

I have the same mod on my '78 Mainship done by the PO. I don't think it actually helps but I have no experience without it. My guess is there was a fad when this mod was done. I think the wedges were supposed to be placed amid the props - recall seeing some hydrodynamic reason. I've also...

Ideal Flow I found this diagram on the web. Seems to confirm that the thermostat plays a part in coolant flow through the manifold. The manifold requires constant flow, regardless of warm-up. The engine needs to be a closed circuit until warm up.

Good points. I would think the ideal flow is to keep the manifold in the loop while warm-up, then divert flow to the exchanger as the thermostat opens. I'll research the Sabre and try to find out if that's how it works. I think with this engine's architecture there's no way to obtain this...

That's a very good point. The only alternative I can think is to have a separate water pump that pulls from the cool side of the hx and returns to the hot side. I think the pressures would cancel each other and not alter the flow of the main coolant loop.

I'm consolidating some discussions from various posts into a dedicated thread on converting the raw water cooled exhaust manifold to the fresh water coolant circuit. Some of the information is interesting on BoatDiesel.com but it doesn't really get into the details, and doesn't address running...

Nice! (time to hang some art down there)

It's getting exciting - please post lots of pics as things progress.

I just did a very similar project. I have a domestic hot water tank inboard. I replaced the shower hose with a garden hose so I could use hot water when rinsing the engine (it's very hot). I started with some Gunk and a variety of brushes. A stiff 2" paint brush is good for some areas, and...

I rebuilt one last year. I've heard some problems can be caused by a fragment of lint, like from a rag, sticking in one of the ball valves. To clear it, turn the wheel all the way to one side, then giving it a stiff push farther, then go back the other way and do the same. Do both helms have...