Howdy, I have a catamaran with a beta 28hp and there is a ticking noise coming from either the bell housing or gearbox. It sounds a bit like a busted tacho cable but I think this one is electric so probably not that. Also I can hear the ticking at the drive controls, presumably being transmitted down the cables. It doesn't seem to affect the workings but a bit of a worry nonetheless. Any ideas?
The noise is not from the tach cable as the tach is electronic and gets its signal from the alternator. We need a lot more information before we can attempt to answer your question. Here is a good list of questions for starters;
How old is the engine? What transmission is fitted? How many hours on it? How long since you started hearing the ticking noise? Do you hear the noise when in forward gear? Do you hear the noise in reverse? Do you hear the noise in neutral? If the engine is not running and you are sailing, do you hear the noise then?
How old is the engine? 1999 What transmission is fitted? dunno, will check this morning How many hours on it? 4000 How long since you started hearing the ticking noise? about 20 hours ago, Do you hear the noise when in forward gear? yes Do you hear the noise in reverse? yes Do you hear the noise in neutral? yes If the engine is not running and you are sailing, do you hear the noise then? no
The gearbox has no identifiable markings other than a brass plate on top with "Newage Coventry" stamped on it, and Mr Google thinks it might be a PRM. I thought to check the oil level at the same time and there is none so I think that may be the problem, I'll top up and see how we go.
This transmission should be a PRM80 and these have been very reliable in service. It does, however, need oil to survive but not too much. The mark on the dipstick is very near the bottom of the stick and you must screw in the dipstick to get the correct level. Oil capacity is only about 1 pint (.57 litre).
