Instrument Cluster

[bluewater]

I am the very recent owner of a 1988 (?) V 20 Merc I/O from by brother who recently passed. He loved the boat but I know very little about this boat. For starters an instrument was removed from the dash so I am looking for a photo of the original dash layout.

I have not inspected the hull and located in Maine it will be a couple of months until I can give it a good once over. While I do not think it will be a problem, the prop was removed so I am not sure what prop to install but I am a long way rom that now.

The boat has been used in fresh water and I noticed that it had a depth finder installed but it was removed and the holes, while small were not filled which I take as "not a good sign" so that is an area that will need a serious inspection as well as the main beams and floor.

After looking over this site, the members seem like a great bunch .To date my only the experience I had was with a early 80's 26 Thunderbird which I had for years. I think this boat and this forum will provide many great memories. Thank you all

[Destroyer]

First off, our most sincere condolences on the passing of your brother. Words can never adequately convey ones sorrow but be sure it is heartfelt.

As to your boat, you have a good one. I'm sure that you'll find that she handles better than any other boat you've ever been on in it's size class. The holes in the transom are a concern, but may or may not be a serious matter. Really, it depends on how long the transducer has been removed and how long the holes have been there. If they are recient you should be fine. If they are years old, it might be a problem. I would suggest that you drill several holes around thee area and look at the wood that comes out. If it's dry and normal you have no problems. If it's soft and spongy or wet and mushy that's an area for concern, and, depending on how much of an area it may need to be fixed for safety reasons. The fact that your boat is an I/O is a plus, since you don't have the weight of an outboard hanging on the transom. (Less flexing)
As far as the missing gauge, it's hard to tell. Normally there is a fuel gauge, a tachometer, a speedometer, engine temp and tilt/trim. But there could be more. or you might have a combo gauge that does several of those functions. A picture would really be a big help here.

Above everything else, welcome aboard. This is a great site with a bunch of really smart people, covering a wide range of professions. Oh, and did I mention... we love boat porn here, so any pics you care to share with us will be warmly received.

[bluewater]

Thank you for your kind thoughts.

I will try to get some pictures of the instrument panel but with the boat covered outside and 2+ months of winter to go, I would be tempted to put it in the garage but cleaning the car and moving it to clear the driveway maybe not such a good idea.

[bradford]

Welcome!

[bluewater]

Thank you. I look forward to mining the great resources offered by members of this site.