Let’s Talk About Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral
The Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral isn’t just another gauge; it’s a statement. It’s a blend of classic marine instrumentation and modern aesthetics, designed to provide accurate trim readings while adding a touch of style to your boat’s helm. With its perimeter-lighted black dial, blue and white graphics, and black aluminum bezel, this gauge from Faria Beede Instruments promises both form and function.
As a seasoned outdoorsman with a soft spot for boating and tactical gear, I’ve always valued reliable instrumentation. A trim gauge is crucial for optimizing boat performance and fuel efficiency. The promise of easy installation and readability, even in low light, caught my attention immediately.
Unboxing the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral, I was immediately impressed by the build quality. The black aluminum bezel felt solid and well-machined, and the flat glass lens gave it a premium look. The gauge had a reassuring weight, suggesting durable construction.
Having used other trim gauges in the past, specifically a Standard Horizon gauge and a generic off-brand model, I wanted to see how the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral stacked up. The Standard Horizon was functional, but lacked the aesthetic appeal. The generic brand failed within a year. I chose the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral for its reputation, visual appeal, and perceived durability.
My initial impression was one of cautious optimism. The gauge looked fantastic. I was excited to see if its performance would match its appearance. I anticipated a smooth installation and accurate readings.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral to the Test
First Use Experience
I tested the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral on my 21-foot center console during a weekend fishing trip in the Florida Keys. The conditions ranged from calm, sunny mornings to choppy, overcast afternoons with light rain. Installation was surprisingly straightforward, requiring only a single wire connection.
The gauge performed admirably in all conditions. The perimeter lighting made it easy to read at night and in low light. Even in direct sunlight, the blue and white graphics remained clear and legible.
The gauge was simple to use, providing instant and accurate trim readings without any noticeable lag. There were no issues or surprises after the first use. I had a successful fishing trip, in part thanks to the ability to optimize my boat’s trim for various sea conditions.
Extended Use & Reliability
After three months of consistent use, the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of fading, scratching, or corrosion. The gauge continues to provide accurate and reliable trim readings.
The gauge requires minimal maintenance. I simply wipe it down with a damp cloth after each trip to remove any salt spray or debris. The gauge has significantly outperformed my previous generic gauge, which failed within months.
Compared to the Standard Horizon gauge, the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral offers superior readability and a more appealing aesthetic. It has exceeded my expectations in terms of both performance and durability.
Breaking Down the Features of Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral
Specifications
The Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral features a perimeter-lighted black dial, enhancing visibility in low-light conditions. The stylish blue and white graphics ensure easy readability, even in bright sunlight. The black aluminum bezel with a burnished edge adds a touch of elegance to any helm.
The flat glass lens protects the dial from damage, ensuring long-term durability. It features both American and metric scales and icons, making it universally compatible. Installation is simple, requiring only a single wire.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the user experience. The lighting ensures visibility, the graphics offer clarity, and the robust construction guarantees longevity. The universal scales add versatility and broad compatibility with different engines and boats.
Performance & Functionality
The Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral performs its job flawlessly, providing accurate and instantaneous trim readings. This allows boaters to optimize their vessel’s performance for speed, fuel efficiency, and ride comfort. The gauge is reliable and easy to use, even for those with minimal boating experience.
The gauge’s strength lies in its simplicity and accuracy. It provides essential information without unnecessary complexity. A minor weakness might be the lack of digital display for ultra-precise readings, but the analog display is more than adequate for most boating applications.
The gauge has met and exceeded my expectations. I can now trim my boat with confidence. It has improved both my fuel efficiency and ride comfort.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is excellent. The materials used, including the aluminum bezel and glass lens, feel premium and durable. The gauge has a comfortable weight.
The design is highly user-friendly. The large, clear numerals and intuitive graphics eliminate any learning curve. Installation is quick and easy.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral is built to last. The robust construction and corrosion-resistant materials ensure years of reliable service. Minimal maintenance is required.
A simple wipe-down with a damp cloth is usually sufficient to keep the gauge looking and performing its best. The high-quality components suggest minimal need for repair.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral does not come with any specific accessories. However, it is compatible with standard wiring harnesses and mounting hardware. The gauge is designed for direct replacement of existing Mercury trim gauges, making it easy to upgrade your boat’s instrumentation.
There aren’t many customization options available for a trim gauge. However, you can choose from different bezel styles or lighting colors to match your boat’s aesthetic (though these are different models). It’s compatible with a wide range of Mercury Marine engines, allowing for broad application across different vessel types.
Pros and Cons of Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral
Pros
- Excellent Readability: The perimeter lighting and clear graphics ensure easy readability in all lighting conditions.
- Durable Construction: The black aluminum bezel and flat glass lens provide long-lasting protection.
- Easy Installation: The single-wire connection simplifies the installation process.
- Accurate Performance: Provides reliable and instantaneous trim readings.
- Stylish Design: The black dial, blue and white graphics, and burnished bezel add a touch of elegance to any helm.
Cons
- Lacks digital display for ultra-precise readings.
- Limited customization options beyond the stock design.
Who Should Buy Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral?
The Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral is perfect for boaters who want a reliable, accurate, and stylish trim gauge. It is suitable for recreational boaters, fishing enthusiasts, and anyone who wants to optimize their boat’s performance. It is especially well-suited for boat owners looking to upgrade their existing Mercury Marine gauges.
Those who require ultra-precise digital readings or highly customized aesthetics might want to explore other options. However, for most boaters, the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral offers an excellent balance of performance, durability, and style. A must-have accessory might be a good quality marine-grade wiring connector to ensure a secure and reliable connection.
Conclusion on Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral
The Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral is a worthwhile investment for any boater seeking a reliable and aesthetically pleasing trim gauge. The price of $49.89 is justified by its performance, durability, and ease of use. The blend of classic design and modern functionality makes it a standout product in its category.
I would personally recommend the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral to any boater looking to upgrade their vessel’s instrumentation. Don’t settle for a generic, unreliable gauge. Invest in the Faria Beede Instruments 13017 Mercury Trim Gauge Coral and experience the difference. Enhance your boating experience today!