3607 Upper Helm Access

[Winegrapewill]

I am going through a new to us 1989 3607. I've got some engine gauges on the upper helm that either don't work, or only work when they feel like it. (Crusader 350hp/454's) What is the easiest way to get to the back of the gauges on the uppper helm? Looked at either take out all the switch panels, or take out the foot rest well.

Any help would be greatly appreciated.

Thanks,
Winegrapewill

[buster53]

Ok, never been on a 3607, but used to own its big brother, 3807.
Most likely, you need to remove the panels, or...is there access from the back of the bench seat.
I currently have a 356 which is laid out much like my old 3807 and removing the dash panels is the only way to access instruments.

[Winegrapewill]

I looked on the front of the helm behind the seating and there are no removable panels. I looked behind the switch panels and there is almost enought room to go up behind the gauges. Lots of screws and switch panels to remove to access all of it. Does anyone know how the black molded plastic cover is attached?

[Cooler]

I have accessed my instrument panel through the foot well. Different boat but probably similar to that helm. Only about 10 screws, and it slides right out. You will need to take the capt chair off the pedestal, and then the well module will clear. You do not have to remove the pedestal. Have a thick blanket to lay on because you will be laying on the edge of the foot well mold. Also, have a strong light and small vacuum handy. Might as well clean the cobwebs out. Finally, check for switches in the lower helm to flip for upper helm functioning. er

[Winegrapewill]

Thanks for the advice. Cordless batteries are charged and ready to go take out screws. Shop vac and blanket on board. Heading out to crawl into tight spaces.

[RGrew176]

Sounds like a fun project. Hope all goes well. Keep us updated as you progress. A good learning experience for all of us.

[Cooler]

Once you get in it's not bad, as long as you don't mind working upside down. Pretty open in there, room to reach and connect, as well as access to back side of gauges for easy removal. Let us know how it goes! er

[Winegrapewill]

Got the footwell out. Plenty of room to crawl in and look around. Very easy to get to things. Lots of space for all kinda stuff. Thanks again to all.

[Cooler]

Yep, you can store your best libations in there, or small kids! Just kidding. If you do need to connect wires, remember to use the appropriate type of connectors. Crimp & shrink. Do Not use wire nuts. Some of those gauge connections are blade type. Make sure they are tight. Spray some electrical cleaner on those connectors. Good job! er

[km1125]

Yours looks similar to mine.

I started dressing the wires down as I replace stuff. Put a bit of extra wire in the line when you add stuff so you can run it down and across the back in an orderly fashion. Also anticipate if you ever need to take the helm off that you'll need a disconnect somewhere in the link if the wire goes somewhere else in the boat. There are a couple multi-connectors that Carver put in for the engines and gauges but not something similar for any of the added accessories, so I've added a terminal block as a demarcation. It would be on inside on the right-most side.