Replacing Volvo gauges on 1985 MT Labelle

[BHalecki]

We are trying to replace Volvo gauges on our 1985 Marine Trader Labelle. We purchased Sierra gauges as replacements. Our first problem is that the existing gauges are connected with slide-on, "plug" type fittings. The new gauges need ring terminals which, it seems, can be crimped onto the existing wiring and then attached to the new gauges.

How do we determine what size ring terminals to get? Do they need to be purchased both by ring size and wire gauge? And do the ring / wire sizes generally vary among instruments or does "one size fit all"?

Thanks.

 

[sean9c]

Will the Sierra gauges read the output from the Volvo senders correctly or are you also changing senders?
Just get terminals with a ring size that'll fit the stud on the gauge. Take a gauge to the store and see what fits. Without getting into wire gauge sizes, if all the wires going to your gauges look to be the same diameter clip off a short piece, take that to the store and ask the guy at the store where you're getting your terminals which size to buy.

 

[LarryM]

We are trying to replace Volvo gauges on our 1985 Marine Trader Labelle. We purchased Sierra gauges as replacements. Our first problem is that the existing gauges are connected with slide-on, "plug" type fittings. The new gauges need ring terminals which, it seems, can be crimped onto the existing wiring and then attached to the new gauges.

How do we determine what size ring terminals to get? Do they need to be purchased both by ring size and wire gauge? And do the ring / wire sizes generally vary among instruments or does "one size fit all"?

Thanks.

I think everything you need to know about Marine Wire Termination can be found in this Compass Marine How To article.

Marine Wire Termination Photo Gallery by Compass Marine How To at pbase.com

IMHO it is a good refresher for just about anyone on the forum