Any ex-Force O/B guys here?

TheTinMan · #1 05-07-2006, 11:38 PM

Has anyone replaced their Force OB with another Make? Did you have to replace your tach?

My 1990 Sport V20 originally came with a Force motor, now has a Mercury.

Since I got my boat my tach has read roughly one half of what it should be. People have told me to check the setting on the back of the tach. I've looked a couple times and there is no adjustable setting.

I have Teleflex guages and found the following info on their website:

9. Why does the Force outboard engine require a special tachometer?

Almost all outboard engines that have an alternator can be monitored by our Universal Outboard Tachometer. That is because most outboard alternators have magnetic pole ranges from 4 to 12 poles. The tachometer is adjustable to those ranges. However, some late model Chrysler outboards and most pre 1993 Force outboards have Prestolite 20 pole alternators. The Universal tachometer is not adjustable for that number of magnetic poles. To expand the existing Universal tachometer from 4 to 20 pole would jeopardize the electronic noise filtering. Therefore, a tachometer that handles only the 20-pole alternator was created. The Teleflex catalog and brochures specify this tachometer, P/N 53743P. Most Force engines built after 1992 have more standard 12 pole alternators and can be monitored by the Universal Outboard Tachometer. If in doubt on the number of poles in a Force alternator consult our tachometer application guide, a Force dealer, or Mercury (the Force parent) customer service (920-929-5040).

So, sounds like I need to buy and install a new tach. Sound right to you guys? Just glad that I think I figured out my tach dilemma...not happy about having to buy a new one.

Mac_Attack · #2 05-08-2006, 12:10 AM

Tin I have a 1990 V20 Sport also. My Force is still running well. This is the first I've heard of any tack problems. There was another sport CC owner on this site but I believe he sold his. It did have a merc on it. He might be able to help you if he is still around or if anyone can remember his handle. I'm curious on what you find out. Bill Mc ;D

chesapeake724 · #3 05-08-2006, 12:27 AM

I had an '88 Force 125 on my first boat, but I never fiddled with the tach, which BTW, was this big, square, color-scale thing that looked more like a toy. That's not really much help, but I think you already know you're probably buying a new tach. Here's something that might help...

http://www.surplusunlimited.com

Prices are overall lower than the big catalogs and sometimes they have closeout stuff for even cheaper. And of course, there's always eBay

http://cgi.ebay.com/ebaymotors/Faria...QQcmdZViewItem

Stinky_Hooker · #4 05-08-2006, 02:01 AM

Mine is 96 model, so it doesnt apply from what Ive read.

#5 05-08-2006, 02:21 AM

i believe that model tach is fo a force only. i had a 86 bayliner with a force 125 and when i tried to replace tach i found out i could only use that big ugly square one. it was easier to replace the motor. when i pulled the force off the boat it was running as well as a force could run. still i couldnt give it away. the mechanic that did the swap wouldnt keep it unless i gave him 20 bucks. so i hope youhave better with your force than i had with my runnin on 3 cylinders ,always leaving me stranded, overwieght, underpowered, gas guzzling p o s!

TheTinMan · #6 05-08-2006, 03:23 AM

Ches, thanks for the links. Have to measure the opening for mine and order one.

reelapeelin · #7 05-08-2006, 08:30 AM

Tin, I'm glad you solved that mystery... ;D...a new trick pony jumps outta the barn everytime I open the door!! ;D ....

TheTinMan · #8 05-08-2006, 09:06 AM

I'm glad too...one of those things that you can't get off your mind.

So, anyone with a pre-1993 Force that is going to repower is going to need a new tach.

Stinky_Hooker · #9 05-08-2006, 10:02 AM

I agree those older 125's leave alot to be desired. My buddy has one and its a POS too. Its not FORCE, its THAT model. Mine 96' 120 has been a gem. *8)

I probably shouldnt have said that. ::)

Of course ANY of the older Forces suck cause they were made by chrystler. You have to get one of the newer one...I stripped down Merc. *;D

Only complaint I have is mine is a little thirsty for a 120.

chesapeake724 · #10 05-08-2006, 10:50 PM

I'm sure the reputation of Force engines is deserved, but I gotta' say that now and then they got it right. My 125 was probably closer to 105hp at the propshaft, but gawl-dangit if that thing wasn't bulletproof. Unstabilized fuel? No problem, started right up. Laid up for 10 months? No problem, started right up. Never fogged? No problem, started right up.