MC Gauge Problem

Had my 2001 X-9 out over the weekend - getting ready to pull my g/f for another set - my engine temperature gauge was dead (needle at the far left of the gauge). Checked the engine - no overheat and good waterflow - but nontheless motored in and put it on the lift. The gauge was dead (when you turn the key to start, the temp gauge needle did not do that little "dance" and make the buzzing noise). However, temp gauge backlight worked when the NAV lights were on, checked the dash connection, wiggled wires on the engine, gauge still didn't work. Left the boat for a few hours, checked it again - presto - the temp gauge works. BUT, the fuel gauge stopped working! Drove the boat the rest of the weekend - every once in a while the fuel gauge would rise part way - then settle back to the left hand/empty position. The temp gauge worked properly. This is going to be a beatch to figure out - any clue???

(Message edited by wiltok on September 27, 2004)

Most likely you have a bad ground or some conductive material on your contacts. Remove the contacts from your gauges under the dash and wire brush/file them clean. Most of the time, this corrects the problem. It takes only just a bit of dust or corrosion in the wrong area to cause this problem.

http://mymastercraft.com/forum/viewtopic.php?p=150#150

This is the service bulletin regarding this issue. It will be difficult to trouble shoot with out the MDC test kit.

Zedz,

You da' man. Since my boat is out of warranty this year - how much do you think this is gonna cost me? Thanks again!!

-Keith

I really don't understand why MC never issued a recall to fix this mess instead of a worthless 'bulletin' to poke around and create more problems. Where is their self-proclaimed 'Quality' here? Seems that every boat they made since 99 has serious problems with the guages. Haven't seen on yet including MINE that the oil pressure guage doesn't bounce back and forth 60 psi. Gave up long ago on the idiot lite ever working. Malibu has had similar issues with the BW (Kysor) electronics. Have they done the same to their customers?

Keith,

In my experience the issue is typically the gauge or the need for a dedicated ground...should be less than $100 total including labor. Ask your dealer to contact MasterCraft Warranty and Technical Assistance, no guarantee but they may be able to help with getting this covered under warranty. If need be I can email you (in PDF) the entire trouble shooting guide. (Never hurts to ask…right?)

Zedz,

Called my dealer - Action Water in Holland Michigan - they were familiar with the service bulletin and said it was an easy fix. Thanks again for your help.

-Keith

BTW - If you boat in southwestern Michigan, check out Action Water. They are the best - I have had nothing but positive experiences with them.

Good to hear.

Action is a class operation, they dont win all those awards by accident.

Glad to help...