Adding analog gauges to MDKBR genset

[Doug Faunt]

I have an Onan MDKBR genset with no gauges, and it looks as if the gauge set using the serial interface is not available.  I’d like to add a set of VDO gauges.  Do the VDO gauges just require 12V and additional senders for oil pressure and coolant temperature?

Is it practical to add those sensors?  I should be able to add tee’s to the existing sensor locations,since I don’t want to lose the failure shutdown features of the existing system, but haven’t really looked at the physical situation.

I just had our Dieselview system replaced with Vesselview 7’s, but wish I’d known about the Sbmar replacements in time to do that, I’m disappointed in what I got.

thanks, doug

Sail training vessel SPIRIT OF SOUTH CAROLINA

 

 

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[Rob Schepis]

Check for unused ports that are plugged. You can see in this pic I have on my genset an unused coolant port right next to the coolant switch. 

What you have now are “switches” that are either open or closed to trigger the safety shutdown. What you will be adding are sending units which will provide the ohm readings for the gauges. 

[Corey Schmidt]

In short, yes, adding the gauges and senders will be the best way to add “instrumentation” to the generator. Switched 12V from the key(s) will power the gauges. You will not be able to “tee” off any existing components…

[Author]

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