Let’s Talk About Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set
The Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set is designed to provide a complete and readily installable set of gauges for inboard motors. Faria Beede Instruments has packaged together essential monitoring instruments for boaters who want a unified and aesthetically pleasing dashboard. This boxed set promises convenience and reliability, offering key metrics at a glance.
My journey towards this product started with a restoration project on a classic Chris-Craft runabout. The original gauges were beyond repair, and I wanted a modern replacement that retained a classic look without sacrificing accuracy or readability. After seeing the Kronos Boxed Set, I felt it offered the perfect blend of vintage style and contemporary function.
Unboxing the set revealed a well-packaged group of instruments. The black bezels and clear dials gave a feeling of quality and durability. The gauges felt substantial, and the included hardware suggested a straightforward installation process.
I considered individual gauges from other manufacturers like Veethree and Livorsi Marine. However, the cohesive design and bundled convenience of the Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set ultimately swayed my decision. The price point, considering the complete set, also seemed reasonable.
My first impression was excitement mingled with a touch of apprehension about the mechanical speedometer. I was hopeful that the set would deliver on its promise of easy installation and reliable performance. Only time and testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set to the Test
First Use Experience
The initial test took place on the newly restored Chris-Craft, during sea trials on a calm lake. I focused on verifying the accuracy of each gauge against known values (GPS speed, multimeter voltage, etc.). The installation, while not entirely plug-and-play, was manageable with basic mechanical skills.
The gauges performed admirably in sunny conditions. The black faces provided good contrast, and the needles were easy to read. All gauges provided accurate readings within expected tolerances, although the mechanical speedometer required some initial calibration.
The only issue encountered was a slight vibration-induced needle flutter on the tachometer at higher RPMs. This wasn’t a deal-breaker, but it was something to monitor.
Extended Use & Reliability
After a full boating season, the Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set has proven to be a reliable and valuable addition to the boat. The gauges have held up well to sun exposure and occasional splashes of water. The clear lenses remain scratch-free.
There are no significant signs of wear and tear, other than some minor fading of the Faria Beede Instruments logo on one of the gauges. The maintenance has been minimal – just occasional wiping down with a damp cloth. The connections have remained secure.
Compared to my previous experiences with individual, mismatched gauges, the Kronos Boxed Set offers a significant improvement in both aesthetics and functionality. The unified design creates a professional and organized dashboard, making it much easier to monitor the engine’s performance. I can now easily monitor the engine vitals.
Breaking Down the Features of Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set
Specifications
- Speedometer (60 MPH) (Mechanical): This gauge uses a pitot tube connected to the back of the speedometer, offering accurate speed readings based on water pressure. The mechanical nature might require running a cable through the hull, which can be challenging for some installations.
- Tachometer (6000 RPM): This gauge measures the engine’s revolutions per minute (RPM). It’s essential for monitoring engine performance and preventing over-revving.
- Fuel Level: This gauge displays the amount of fuel remaining in the tank. It ensures that you never get stranded due to an empty tank.
- Voltmeter (10-16 VDC): This gauge indicates the voltage of the boat’s electrical system. It’s vital for monitoring battery health and charging system performance.
- Water Temp (100-250 F): This gauge shows the engine’s coolant temperature. It helps prevent overheating, which can cause serious engine damage.
- Oil PSI (80 PSI): This gauge displays the oil pressure in the engine. It’s a crucial indicator of engine lubrication and overall health.
These specifications matter because they provide a comprehensive overview of the engine’s vital signs, enabling proactive maintenance and preventing costly repairs. The complete set means boaters don’t need to shop around for individual, matching gauges. This is a significant time-saver.
Performance & Functionality
The Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set performs its job exceptionally well. The gauges are accurate, reliable, and easy to read under various lighting conditions. The mechanical speedometer delivers precise speed readings, while the electrical gauges provide stable and consistent data.
The strengths lie in the set’s completeness and ease of installation. The main weakness is the potential for vibration-induced needle flutter on the tachometer, which might require additional dampening measures. Overall, the set meets my expectations and provides the essential information needed to safely operate an inboard motor.
Design & Ergonomics
The build quality is solid, with durable materials and a classic black bezel design. The weight of each gauge feels substantial, indicating robust construction. The gauges fit comfortably into standard 2-1/16″ (52mm) gauge openings.
The set is user-friendly, with straightforward wiring and clear instructions. There’s minimal learning curve for anyone with basic electrical knowledge. It offers a clean, professional dashboard.
Durability & Maintenance
The Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set is built to last. The materials are resistant to UV exposure and water damage. The gauges are designed to withstand the harsh marine environment.
Maintenance is easy, requiring only occasional cleaning with a soft cloth and mild detergent. The connections are easily accessible for inspection and tightening. Their long-term reliability is a major selling point.
Accessories and Customization Options
The boxed set includes the basic hardware required for installation, such as mounting brackets and wiring connectors. There are no extensive customization options directly offered by Faria Beede Instruments for this specific set. However, the standard gauge size allows for some aftermarket customization.
The gauges are compatible with standard sending units from other brands. This enables boaters to upgrade or replace individual sensors as needed. Lighting can be customized by replacing bulbs with brighter LEDs.
Pros and Cons of Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set
Pros
- Complete Set: Provides all essential gauges in one package. Saves time and effort.
- Classic Design: The black bezels and clear dials offer a timeless aesthetic. It integrates seamlessly with most boat interiors.
- Reliable Performance: Accurate and consistent readings ensure safe and efficient boating. Offers peace of mind.
- Easy Installation: Straightforward wiring and mounting make the set accessible to DIYers.
- Durable Construction: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment. Long-lasting and reliable.
Cons
- Mechanical Speedometer Requires Cable Routing: This can be challenging for some installations. Requires planning and execution.
- Potential for Tachometer Needle Flutter: May require additional dampening measures. This can be annoying.
Who Should Buy Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set?
The Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set is perfect for boat owners restoring classic boats or upgrading their existing dashboards. It is also ideal for those who want a complete and reliable set of gauges for their inboard motors. DIY boaters looking for an easy-to-install solution will also greatly benefit from this product.
This product may not be the best choice for those seeking advanced features such as digital displays or integrated GPS functionality. Those who need ultra-precise readings or have very limited installation space might also want to consider alternatives.
A must-have accessory is a wiring harness that simplifies the connections between the gauges and the boat’s electrical system. A pitot tube kit with all necessary fittings is also essential for the mechanical speedometer installation. A digital multimeter for calibrating and troubleshooting is also an important add-on.
Conclusion on Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set
The Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set offers an excellent balance of classic design, reliable performance, and ease of installation. It’s a comprehensive solution for boaters who need essential gauges in one convenient package. The gauges provide accurate readings and have proven durable over extended use.
The price of $309.99 is justified considering the completeness and quality of the set. While the mechanical speedometer might require some extra effort to install and the tachometer could potentially exhibit needle flutter, these minor drawbacks are outweighed by the overall value and performance.
I would personally recommend the Faria Beede Instruments Kronos Boxed Set to anyone looking to upgrade or restore their boat’s dashboard. It provides a reliable and aesthetically pleasing solution for monitoring essential engine parameters. Invest in the Kronos Boxed Set and enjoy worry-free boating!