I just wanted to get some input before I dig into this over the next few days. I have noticed that most of my gauges are providing a low reading in comparison to actual measurements. I am using the stock senders and stock gauges (VDO). Anywhere I should start looking? Grounds? For example, my volt gauge reads 10.5-11 when running but a Fluke meter shows 13.2 - 13.8, my oil pressure gauges reads ~25 PSI but the mechanical gauge i tied into the system reads ~60 PSI, and my temperature gauge reads roughly ~120F when my infrared reads ~150 - 160 F. I have a set of Faria's from a Sonic but no senders so, depending on what I find, those might have to be installed with the correct senders. I would like to keep the classic look if possible but if the gauges are the culprit then I think I will go ahead and upgrade. Thoughts?

Probably a ground issue. I know that when I replaced my circuit breakers and gauges, most of the connections to the terminals and grounding bars were quite corroded. The panel comes off easily so getting in there to do cleanup shouldn't be too much of a pill. Make sure the grounds on the engine are good too. I used the combo bolts/studs that Merc used along with stainless toothed washers to get a good bite. Ground issues will not be a problem for me!

Hope this helps.

It's a ground issue .. Very common on formulas on the twin engine boats u get the same issue with one engine running .. Turn second key on and all gauges jump up . If I remember correctly I jumped the ground off the cig lighter over to the gauges.. That corrected the issue .. I've done this on about 3 of the formulas I have owned ..

Thanks guys, just curious, are the gauges daisy chained together on the ground side? Haven't opened it up yet..

Mine are on my 87 242SS

Thanks guys, it was the grounds. Jumped a wired from the accessory port to the gauge ground for now until my senders come in for the faria gauges.