Replacing Kysor Digital-input Gauges on 2000 Malibu Response

[raming]

My year 2000 Malibu Response LX has a bad Tachometer Gauge. The Hour-Meter part still works and all the other gauges operate. These Digital-Input 'Kysor Medallion Servo' gauges are not readily available and are expensive. In my case, I was able to install a 2" Diameter 'Analog-Input' gage into a blank spot on the dash. I purchased the gauge through Amazon:

Amazon.com: ELING Digital Tachometer RPM Gauge with Hour Meter for Car Truck Boat Yacht 0-9990RPM 52mm(2") with Backlight: Automotive

Procedure:

1. Remove 2" Diameter Blank and physically mount new gauge.

2. Connect 4wire connector to back of gauge.

3. Connect the wires:

   a. Gauge Blue 'Gnd' wire to Boat Harness Black Wire (Ground).

   b. Gauge Red '12VDC' wire to Boat Harness Purple/White wire (Ignition Accessory).

   c. Gauge  Orange 'Backlight' wire to Boat Harness DarkBlue wire (Instrument Light).

   d. Gauge Black 'Signal Input' wire to a Tachometer signal wire: The first option is to find the Gray (Ignition Neg) wire. Second choice is to snake a wire from the Alternator "AC" or "W" post to the  the Gauge. In my case, I got intermittent readings using the Gray wire. The Alternator AC wire gave a steady reading.

   e. Adjust the 'Speed Ratio' via the black button on the back of gauge to give the correct reading. In my case a setting of '16' provided the correct RPM at a given engine load (3600 RPM at 35mph).

Notes: The hourmeter only advances when the engine is running (RPM active). Meter turns on when the ignition is on. Instrument Light switch will turn on the Backlight.

[Eagleboy99]

Interesting workaround!  The grey wire is also what PerfectPass uses.