Let’s Talk About Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit
Navigating the waters requires more than just a boat and a motor; knowing your speed is crucial for everything from watersports to safe navigation. The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit offers a solution for boaters seeking accurate speed readings without relying on GPS alone. Faria Beede Instruments is a well-known name in marine instrumentation, and this kit promises a universal solution for connecting a speedometer to your boat.
I had been relying on my phone’s GPS for speed readings, but found it unreliable in areas with spotty coverage and too distracting to constantly monitor. I needed a dedicated speedometer solution that was accurate, reliable, and easy to install. I was hoping for a simple, no-nonsense kit that would integrate seamlessly with my existing Faria Beede gauges.
Upon opening the package, I was immediately struck by the simplicity of the design. The kit contains the pitot tube, an escutcheon plate, and mounting hardware. The black finish looks clean and functional.
Compared to other pitot kits I considered, the Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit stood out for its universal compatibility claim. Some kits are brand-specific, and I wanted something that would work regardless of my speedometer. The price point was also appealing, significantly lower than some of the more “premium” options that didn’t seem to offer any substantial advantage.
My first impression was one of cautious optimism. The components seemed well-made, and the simplicity was reassuring. I was eager to get it installed and see if it lived up to its promise of easy integration and accurate speed readings.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit on my 18-foot center console boat during a fishing trip on a local lake. The conditions were typical for late summer: warm, sunny, and with a slight chop on the water. The installation was surprisingly straightforward, taking about an hour with basic tools.
The pitot tube performed admirably in the varying water conditions. Even when encountering some minor wakes from other boats, the speedometer reading remained relatively stable. The real test came when trolling for walleye; maintaining a consistent low speed is crucial, and the pitot tube helped me dial it in perfectly.
The biggest surprise was how responsive the speedometer became. The readings were immediate and accurately reflected changes in throttle. The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit provided a much more intuitive and reliable speed indication compared to the laggy GPS readings I was previously relying on.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, the Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit has proven to be a reliable addition to my boat. The durable plastic construction has held up well against the constant exposure to sun and water. There are no signs of cracking or discoloration.
Maintenance has been minimal. I occasionally wipe down the pitot tube to remove any accumulated algae or debris. The kit has consistently provided accurate speed readings throughout the season.
Compared to my previous experience with unreliable GPS readings, the Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit has been a game-changer. I now have complete confidence in my boat’s speedometer, allowing me to focus on fishing and enjoying the water. It far outperforms the inconsistency of a GPS reading in my experience.
Breaking Down the Features of Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit
Specifications
The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit is a universal transom mount speedometer pick-up. It includes an escutcheon plate and mounting hardware.
The kit is designed for use with all marine speedometers through 80 mph. It also features a universal hole pattern for mounting.
The kit’s manufacturer is Faria Beede Instruments. The color is black.
The universal design means it should be compatible with a wide range of boats and speedometer brands. This minimizes the risk of incompatibility and simplifies the installation process.
Performance & Functionality
The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit excels at providing accurate and real-time speed readings. Its simple design minimizes the potential for malfunctions.
It’s a straightforward solution that delivers on its promise of reliable speed indication.
The kit’s strengths lie in its simplicity, accuracy, and universal compatibility. Its primary weakness is that it relies on a mechanical system, which can be susceptible to clogging from debris.
Despite this, the benefits of accurate speed readings outweigh the potential for occasional maintenance. The kit has far exceeded expectations in replacing my reliance on GPS.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit features a simple, functional design. The black plastic construction is durable and resistant to the elements.
The included escutcheon plate adds a clean, professional look to the installation.
The kit is remarkably user-friendly. The straightforward installation process requires only basic tools and minimal technical expertise.
There’s virtually no learning curve involved; once installed, it provides immediate and accurate speed readings.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit is built to withstand the harsh marine environment. The durable plastic construction is resistant to UV damage and corrosion.
With proper care and occasional cleaning, it should provide years of reliable service.
Maintenance is minimal. Regularly checking for and removing any accumulated debris from the pitot tube is essential.
This simple preventative measure will ensure accurate speed readings and prolong the life of the kit.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit includes everything needed for basic installation. There is an escutcheon plate and mounting hardware.
The kit comes with two tubing length options to accommodate different boat configurations.
While the kit itself doesn’t offer extensive customization options, it’s compatible with virtually any marine speedometer. Users can choose a speedometer that matches their desired style and functionality.
The universal hole pattern also allows for easy replacement or upgrade of the pitot tube itself if desired. The mounting hardware is simple and effective.
Pros and Cons of Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit
Pros
- Universal Compatibility: Works with virtually any marine speedometer.
- Accurate Speed Readings: Provides real-time and reliable speed indication.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward process requires only basic tools.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
- Affordable Price: Offers excellent value for the money.
Cons
- Can be susceptible to clogging from debris.
- Requires regular cleaning to maintain accuracy.
Who Should Buy Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit?
The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit is perfect for boaters who want a reliable and accurate speedometer without relying on GPS. It is well-suited for anglers, watersports enthusiasts, and anyone who values precise speed control on the water.
It’s also an excellent choice for those upgrading or replacing an existing speedometer system.
This product might not be ideal for boaters who primarily navigate in very shallow or debris-filled waters. The pitot tube is more susceptible to clogging.
Those seeking advanced features like GPS integration or digital displays may want to explore other options.
A must-have accessory for this kit is a tube of marine sealant. This ensures a watertight installation and prevents any potential leaks.
Consider purchasing some extra tubing and connectors to facilitate a cleaner and more customized installation.
Conclusion on Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit
The Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit is a simple, effective, and affordable solution for boaters seeking accurate speed readings. Its universal compatibility, durable construction, and easy installation make it an excellent choice for a wide range of boats.
While it requires occasional maintenance to prevent clogging, the benefits of reliable speed indication far outweigh this minor inconvenience.
The price of the Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit is definitely justified by its performance and reliability. It is a worthwhile investment for anyone who values accurate speed control on the water.
I would personally recommend the Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit to any boater looking for a dependable and easy-to-install speedometer solution.
If you’re tired of unreliable GPS readings and want to take control of your boat’s speed, give the Faria Beede Instruments Pitot Kit a try. It might be just what you need to take your boating experience to the next level. Upgrade your boat today!