Let’s Talk About Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer offers a modern twist on a classic instrument. Designed for boaters who value accuracy and aesthetics, this GPS speedometer boasts a clean white dial, stainless steel bezel, and digital display. The Faria Beede promises accurate speed readings without the hassle of traditional pitot tubes.
My journey to finding this speedometer started with frustration. My old paddle wheel sensor consistently gave inaccurate readings, especially at slower speeds, rendering it useless in no-wake zones. I was looking for a reliable, easy-to-install solution that could provide accurate speed data regardless of my boat’s speed.
Upon unboxing the Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer, I was immediately struck by its sleek design. The stainless steel bezel and white dial exuded quality, and the unit felt solid and well-built. Its weight felt appropriate for its size, and the materials appeared to be top-notch, promising a long life in a marine environment.
I considered several other GPS speedometers before settling on the Faria Beede. I looked at models from Garmin and Lowrance, but the Faria Beede stood out due to its integrated GPS antenna and classic aesthetic. The promise of no external antenna and a design that would seamlessly integrate with my existing gauges sealed the deal.
My first impression was one of excitement. The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer looked even better in person than in the pictures, and I was eager to install it and see how it performed on the water. I hoped it would finally provide the accurate speed readings I desperately needed.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer to the Test
First Use Experience
My initial testing took place on the Chesapeake Bay, a fitting location given the product’s name. I installed the Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer as a direct replacement for my old unit, which proved to be a straightforward process. The provided Deutsch connectors made wiring simple and secure.
The performance was impressive even in choppy conditions. The GPS signal locked on quickly, and the speedometer provided accurate readings even at very slow speeds. The digital stepper motor kept the needle steady, eliminating the annoying bounce I experienced with my old mechanical speedometer.
The Faria Beede was incredibly easy to use right out of the box. After a quick calibration (detailed in the included instructions), the speedometer worked flawlessly. I was particularly impressed by the Course Over Ground (COG) display on the digital LCD, which provided valuable navigational information.
One minor surprise was how bright the Premium LED back-lit dials were at night. While the illumination looked fantastic, it was almost too bright initially. Fortunately, my boat’s dimmer switch allowed me to adjust the brightness to a more comfortable level.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer has proven to be incredibly reliable. It consistently provides accurate speed readings, and the GPS signal acquisition remains remarkably fast, even after extended periods of inactivity. I’ve used the Faria Beede in varying conditions from calm waters to moderate swells.
The Faria Beede has held up exceptionally well to the harsh marine environment. The stainless steel bezel still looks as good as new, and the white dial shows no signs of fading or discoloration. The domed glass lens has also resisted scratching and crazing.
Maintenance is practically non-existent. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all it takes to keep the Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer looking its best. The sealed design prevents water intrusion, further minimizing the need for extensive cleaning or maintenance.
Compared to my previous speedometer, the Faria Beede is a significant upgrade. Its accuracy, reliability, and ease of use far surpass my old paddle wheel sensor. It has exceeded my expectations in every way, making boating more enjoyable and safer.
Breaking Down the Features of Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer
Specifications
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer boasts several impressive specifications. It features a 4-inch diameter and requires a 3.375-inch (85mm) hole for installation. The speedometer displays speeds up to 60 MPH using an analog pointer driven by a digital stepper motor.
The unit incorporates an internal GPS antenna and a highly accurate 48 channel GPS receiver. It displays Course Over Ground (COG) and actual heading (compass heading over ground) on an optional digital LCD. It also utilizes Deutsch connectors for secure and reliable electrical connections.
These specifications are critical for the Faria Beede’s exceptional performance. The GPS receiver provides accurate speed data without relying on unreliable mechanical sensors. The digital stepper motor ensures smooth and precise needle movement, while the stainless steel construction guarantees long-term durability in harsh marine environments.
Performance & Functionality
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer excels at its primary function: providing accurate speed readings. Its reliability is unmatched, and the easy installation makes it a user-friendly upgrade. The Course Over Ground (COG) display also adds a valuable navigational feature.
The Speed Accuracy of +/- 1 MPH ensures confidence in navigation and adherence to speed restrictions. The elimination of a traditional paddle wheel sensor removes a common point of failure on boats. The Ultra fast Satellite acquisition time (TTFF) 1 second from Hot start gets you going quicker.
While the speedometer is nearly perfect, the brightness of the backlight could be overwhelming in some situations, although this can typically be adjusted using a dimmer. The Heading Accuracy of +/- 1 Degree is outstanding, but might not be as important for some boaters. Overall, the Faria Beede significantly exceeds expectations.
Design & Ergonomics
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer features a classic and elegant design. The perimeter lighted white dial with stylish blue and black graphics is easy to read in any lighting condition. The polished stainless steel bezel adds a touch of sophistication to any boat’s dashboard.
The build quality is outstanding. The materials feel durable and well-chosen for the marine environment. The weight is balanced, and the domed glass lens provides a clear and distortion-free view of the dial.
The installation process is incredibly user-friendly. The simple wiring and clear instructions make it easy for boat owners to upgrade their speedometers without professional assistance. The contoured black pointer is easy to see at a glance, making speed monitoring nearly effortless.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer is built to last. Its robust construction and high-quality materials ensure long-term durability, even in harsh marine conditions. The stainless steel bezel resists corrosion, and the domed glass lens prevents water damage.
Maintenance is simple and straightforward. A quick wipe with a damp cloth is all that is needed to keep the speedometer looking its best. The sealed design minimizes the risk of internal damage from moisture or salt spray.
Given its solid construction and minimal maintenance requirements, the Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer should provide years of reliable service. It is an investment that will pay off in terms of accuracy, reliability, and peace of mind.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer does not come with many accessories, as it is designed as a direct replacement for existing speedometers. However, the optional digital LCD allows for customization of the displayed information, such as Course Over Ground and heading.
The Faria Beede is compatible with standard marine wiring systems, thanks to the Deutsch connectors. This makes it easy to integrate the speedometer into any boat’s existing electrical system. The universal mounting design also allows for easy installation in a wide range of boat dashboards.
While there are limited customization options specifically for the Faria Beede, its sleek design and accurate performance make it a valuable addition to any boat, regardless of make or model. Its compatibility with standard marine electrical systems ensures seamless integration with existing equipment.
Pros and Cons of Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer
Pros
- Accurate Speed Readings: Provides reliable speed data using GPS technology, eliminating the inaccuracies of traditional paddle wheel sensors.
- Easy Installation: Designed as a direct replacement for existing speedometers, with simple wiring and clear instructions.
- Durable Construction: Built with high-quality materials, including a stainless steel bezel and domed glass lens, to withstand harsh marine environments.
- Sleek Design: Features a classic white dial with stylish graphics and a polished stainless steel bezel, adding a touch of elegance to any boat’s dashboard.
- Integrated GPS Antenna: Eliminates the need for an external GPS antenna, simplifying installation and reducing clutter.
Cons
- The Premium LED back-lit dials can be very bright at night.
- Limited customization options beyond the optional digital LCD and dimmer adjustments.
Who Should Buy Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer?
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer is perfect for boaters who demand accurate and reliable speed readings. This is especially useful for those navigating in no-wake zones or performing activities such as fishing and watersports. Pro anglers and casual boaters alike will find the Faria Beede a worthwhile upgrade.
Anyone still relying on traditional paddle wheel speedometers should consider switching to the Faria Beede. If you are happy with your current speedometer and do not need the accuracy of GPS, this might not be for you. Those on a very tight budget might explore cheaper, less reliable options first.
A must-have modification is a dimmer switch for the backlight, if your boat doesn’t already have one. This will allow you to adjust the brightness of the dial for optimal visibility in all lighting conditions. It’s also recommended to consult your boat’s wiring diagram to ensure compatibility before installation.
Conclusion on Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer
The Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer is a fantastic upgrade for any boat. It offers a blend of classic aesthetics, modern technology, and exceptional reliability. The accurate GPS speed readings, easy installation, and durable construction make it a worthwhile investment for any boater.
The price is justified by the superior performance and long-term value. While cheaper options exist, they cannot match the Faria Beede’s accuracy, reliability, and ease of use. You get what you pay for and more.
I would wholeheartedly recommend the Faria Beede Instruments Chesapeake White SS 4″ Speedometer to any boater looking for a reliable and accurate speedometer. If you’re tired of inaccurate speed readings and unreliable mechanical sensors, this is the solution you’ve been waiting for. Upgrade your boating experience today and enjoy the peace of mind that comes with accurate and reliable speed data.