[Ozark Bob]

I finally got around to opening my M276MCC up for the season. When I started it up I noticed that the alarm that goes off when you first turn the key is not working. I would like to take the alarm out and test it but I can't find it. Can anyone tell me where it is located? Any ideas why it is not working would also be appreciated

Thanks,

Bob

[ShabahZ280]

The alarm monitors 3 things. Oil Pressure, Engine Temperature, and Gear Oil Level. The sensors are all connected via a tan wire with a blue stripe. The piezo transducer is located behind your dash and could be bad, I replaced mine fairly easily by just cutting the old one out and splicing in the replacement. However your best bet would be to first have the alarm tested by a Mercruiser service facility and see if it's just your piezo, or if your sensors are bad.

[Ozark Bob]

Chris,

Thanks for the reply. I have looked for the piezo but can't locate it. I thought I had found it but after I took it out and tested it I figured out it was for the alarm for the depth gauge. It worked by the way...lol I don't have a lot of access on the M276CC. The only access I have is by taking out two panels located in the head. Can you give me a better idea where to look? I do agree I need to take the boat into the shop. The only problem is I have to take it by water and I am a little nervous doing that without the alarms working.

Bob

[Cliff_Haskins]

It is a serious pain to do, but you can remove the "goose" that covers the dash cut out on a 276 between the door and the dash. It is the white plexiglass piece with the windshield brace attached to it. The brace is usually attached to the plex, not the fiberglass, therefore allowing a person to remove the 5 or 6 screws from the plex and the 2 from the windshield frame and the trim piece comes off. Be careful though, the windshield frame will no doubt be putting downward pressure on the brace. With the trim out of the way, you'll have a bit more access to the area behind the dash. I would only do this if you feel absolutely comfortable with it. If not, take it to a reputable shop.

[ShabahZ280]

Originally Posted by Ozark Bob

Chris,
The only problem is I have to take it by water and I am a little nervous doing that without the alarms working.

Just check your drive oil reservoir before you go (it's the clear plastic container located on the top of your engine block. Make sure it's got enough fluid in there. Then keep your eye on the oil pressure and temp gauges. Watch for any abnormally high readings (oil should be around 40 and temp should be around 180 i believe). Anything higher and I'd start taking it a little easier on the engine.

[Ozark Bob]

Thanks everyone for the replys. I finally found the piezo behind the throttle/shifter. Sure enough it was bad. Got a new one installed. Now it is off to the marina for it's spring service.

Happy Boating

Bob

[ShabahZ280]

Congrats Bob, glad it was an easy fix!