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APPENDIX A: Sensor Installation (detailed)
Tach Sensor Installation
Our standard Tach sensor can be installed on both two and four cycle engines.
For best results, keep the Tach sensor cable separated as much as possible from
all other cables running to your instrument.
Use a cable tie on the shrink tube, at the end of the green wire, to attach the sensor
to the plug wire, keeping the end at least 2" from the plug boot. Keep the sensor
electronics (colored band of plastic) away from any ignition component. Attach
the end of the black ground wire to bare metal on the engine block. Route the
sensor cable from the motor to your instrument, securing with cable ties. Plug
into the pigtail with the small “push-on” type connector.
Four cycle engines: The Tach sensor is a small antennae that picks up the energy
radiated by the spark plug wire. Four cycle engines produce weaker signals than
other engines. To receive a strong signal with a four cycle engine, spiral the colored
wire down the spark plug wire of the sensor. This creates the antennae.
Two cycle engines: These engines usually produce a strong signal. Attaching the
end of the Tach sensor to the spark plug wire should be sufficient to get a strong
reading. If it is not, spiral the colored wire down the spark plug wire.
For best results, keep the Tach sensor cable separated as much as possible from
any other cables running to your instrument.
