Let’s Talk About VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer
The VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer is designed for marine applications, offering a classic look and reliable speed readings up to 60 MPH. This VDO gauge promises to be a cost-effective solution for both new boat builds and replacements in older vessels. I’ve spent years on the water, relying on accurate instrumentation, so the Allentare’s simplicity and potential reliability caught my eye.
My old boat’s speedometer, a relic from the 80s, had finally given up the ghost; its needle stuck stubbornly at zero. I needed a replacement that was both functional and wouldn’t break the bank, leading me to consider the VDO Allentare. I needed something easy to install and that would match the existing aesthetics of my boat.
The gauge arrived in a simple, no-frills package. The black bezel and face gave it a clean, classic appearance. The build quality felt solid, especially considering the price point; it seemed durable enough to handle the harsh marine environment.
I considered a GPS-based speedometer, but the VDO Allentare’s simplicity and ease of installation, using the existing pitot tube system, won me over. Digital options can be more accurate, but require more power and can be harder to read in direct sunlight. The other mechanical option I considered was a paddle wheel speedometer, but those are prone to damage and fouling.
My initial impression was cautiously optimistic. The gauge looked good, felt solid, and promised a straightforward installation. I was eager to get it on the water and see how it performed.
Real-World Testing: Putting VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer to the Test
First Use Experience
I installed the VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer on my 21-foot center console during a weekend fishing trip in the Chesapeake Bay. The installation was relatively easy, taking about an hour, and involved connecting the pitot tube and wiring up the power and ground. I took advantage of the existing wires and pitot tube from the old speedometer which saved installation time.
The bay offered a variety of conditions, from calm mornings to choppy afternoons. The gauge performed well, providing consistent speed readings that seemed accurate based on my experience and GPS confirmation. There were no issues in the varying water conditions.
The Allentare was remarkably easy to read, even in bright sunlight, thanks to its clear, uncluttered face. No adjustment period was needed to use the VDO Allentare. There were no initial hiccups or surprises.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer has proven to be a reliable addition to my boat. The gauge continues to provide accurate speed readings. It has held up well to the elements.
I’ve noticed no significant signs of wear and tear, even after exposure to saltwater and sun. A quick wipe-down with a damp cloth is all that’s needed to keep it clean. The gauge has exceeded my expectations; performing better than my previous speedometer even when it was brand new.
Compared to my old speedometer, the VDO Allentare is a significant improvement. It’s more accurate, easier to read, and seems far more durable. The old one fogged up regularly, obscuring the dial.
Breaking Down the Features of VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer
Specifications
- The VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer displays speeds up to 60 MPH. This is suitable for most recreational boats.
- The gauge has a diameter of 3-3/8″ (85mm). This is a standard size, making it easy to replace existing gauges.
- The face and bezel are black. This provides a clean, classic look that complements most boat interiors.
- The speedometer operates using a pitot tube. This is a simple and reliable method of measuring speed through the water.
- VDO, the manufacturer, is a well-known and trusted brand in automotive and marine instrumentation. This reputation for quality is reassuring.
These specifications matter because they directly impact the usability and reliability of the speedometer. The 60 MPH range covers the speeds of most recreational boats. The 3-3/8″ size ensures easy installation, and the VDO name offers confidence in the product’s durability.
Performance & Functionality
The VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer performs its job admirably, providing accurate and consistent speed readings. The needle responds quickly to changes in speed. This makes it easy to maintain the desired speed for cruising or fishing.
The main strength of this gauge is its simplicity and reliability. The needle smoothly moves, and the pitot tube connection is easy to implement. The gauge’s weakness is that pitot tube speedometers can be affected by debris clogging the pitot tube.
The gauge meets my expectations for a basic, reliable speedometer. The ease of use and accuracy have made it a valuable addition to my boat.
Design & Ergonomics
The VDO Allentare’s design is clean and functional. The black face and bezel are easy on the eyes and blend seamlessly with my boat’s console. The numbers and markings are clear and easy to read, even at a glance.
The build quality feels solid. The materials used seem durable and well-suited to the marine environment. The gauge has a good weight to it, providing a sense of quality.
The VDO Allentare is incredibly user-friendly; there’s virtually no learning curve. It’s a straightforward, analog gauge that simply displays speed.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience, the VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer is built to last. The materials and construction suggest a long lifespan, even with regular exposure to saltwater and sun. I expect it to last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal; a quick wipe with a damp cloth keeps it clean. The pitot tube may occasionally need to be cleared of debris, but this is a simple process. The need to clear the pitot tube is common for all pitot tube speedometers.
Accessories and Customization Options
The VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer is a standalone unit, so it doesn’t come with many accessories. The most common modification would be replacing the pitot tube and its hoses. A good quality pitot tube and hose can make the gauge more accurate.
Because it’s a standard size, it fits many existing gauge panels. The VDO Allentare is compatible with any standard pitot tube system. This makes it a versatile replacement option.
Pros and Cons of VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer
Pros
- Cost-effective: Offers reliable performance at an affordable price.
- Easy to install: Simple wiring and pitot tube connection make installation straightforward.
- Easy to read: Clear face and markings ensure good visibility in all conditions.
- Reliable: Provides consistent and accurate speed readings.
- Durable: Built to withstand the harsh marine environment.
Cons
- Pitot tube can be susceptible to clogging.
- Not as precise as GPS-based speedometers.
Who Should Buy VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer?
The VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer is perfect for boat owners seeking a reliable and affordable replacement speedometer. It’s well-suited for recreational boaters, fishermen, and anyone who needs a basic, easy-to-read speed indicator. It is a great match for someone looking to restore a boat back to its original condition.
Those seeking pinpoint accuracy or advanced features like data logging should skip this product. They are better suited to digital speedometers that use GPS data. Also, boaters who frequently navigate in weedy or debris-filled waters may find the pitot tube clogging too often.
A must-have is a good-quality pitot tube and hose kit to ensure accurate readings and prevent leaks. Having some basic wiring tools can help with the installation process.
Conclusion on VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer
Overall, the VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer is a solid choice for anyone needing a reliable and affordable speedometer. It’s simple, easy to install, and performs its job admirably. The VDO Allentare offers a good balance between price and performance.
The price of $67.99 is definitely justified, considering the gauge’s reliability and durability. It’s a small investment for a critical piece of boating instrumentation. I’d recommend this speedometer to any boater looking for a no-frills, dependable speed indicator.
If you value simplicity, reliability, and affordability, the VDO Allentare Black 60MPH 3-3/8″ 85mm Pitot Speedometer is an excellent option. Don’t let a broken speedometer keep you guessing; upgrade to the VDO Allentare and enjoy accurate speed readings on the water.