Vapor Detection System
 

1991 Formula 242 SS - my "new" boat.

I'm trying to repair/refurbish a few things, and am currently trying to get the vapor detection system to show signs of life. I believe most Formulas of this vintage have the same system (Marine Technologies ?).

Anyway - it has a dash mount control unit and a small sensor unit in the engine well. I cannot seem to get any life out of the thing; it is as if it is not getting any power. There are LEDs on both the control panel and the sensor, but nothing, no lights go on, nill, nothing, nada.

I've done all the "idiot stuff" like turn on the power, turn on the ignition, trip/reset the circuit breaker, check the wiring.

I am wondering if those of you who have this sort of unit could help me out. If it is working, will I see the power light on the panel go on (I would think yes)? How about the LED on the sensor unit? Should that light up when powered, or only when vapors are detected? Any insight would be helpful.

Thanks in advance.

Happy boating !!

Re: Vapor Detection System
 

same problem,

Re: Vapor Detection System
 

When the sensor in the bilge goes bad they keep going off, maybe the previous owner disconnected power to it to stop it from going off. I would take a meter and check to see if you have voltage to the unit.

Re: Vapor Detection System
 

I just checked the unit and there is power getting to the circuit board of the control unit. The circuit breaker is working as well.

Given that, I would think that the power light would go on. So far nothing. I may have to just replace the entire thing, but my urge to fix things versus spend $$$ keeps me trying.

Re: Vapor Detection System
 

If you know you are getting power to the circuit board, the next thing I would do is replace the sensor in the bilge. It is a little grey colored button that unplugs from the base. They need to be replaced every 4-5 years. Check on-line for the company. There will be a contact number. Give them the model number and they will send you the sensor. Around $40.00 I think this will fix your problem.

Re: Vapor Detection System
 

During that era, Formula used the SAFE-T-ALERT fume sensor, model SA-1XL. The sensor you need for this unit is SA-186-S from MTI Industries or Marine Technologies, Inc. 1-800-383-0269.

Hope this is helpful.

RedDog

Re: Vapor Detection System
 

RedDog -

Sounds about right, thanks for the info. I will order a new sensor plug.

Much thanks.

Tpenfield

Re: Vapor Detection System
 

Just a quick update on the vapor detector.

I got the replacement senor plug, but it did not seem to work.

So, rather than futzing with it any further, I ordered a new unit ($100).

Fortunately the same unit is still available.