Bukh Tacho Generator Advice

[Sonofadidley]

Hi there folks, I’m after a bit of advice/knowledge on Bukh tacho senders. I’ve recently acquired a nice set of gauges (all VDO circa late 70’s) including a tachometer. The tachometer was from a BMC and has only two connections: negative and ‘g’ (which I assume is for ‘giver’. This leads me to the conclusion that it was powered from a tacho generator as it doesn’t have enough connections for an AC pickup from the alternator.

Looking through the DV10 parts manual, there is a picture of two types of of tacho sender: one appears to be an inductive sensor which locates near the injector pump, the other is a VDO style tacho generator. Despite searching the diagrams, I can’t figure out where the tacho generator connects to the engine. My best guess is near to the oil pump, can anyone confirm this?

I’m also curious as to whether the inductive senders produce the same signal/voltage as the tacho generators? I inquired as to the price of an inductive sender with Bukh and was quoted £650 + shipping + tax. Clearly not an option.

I know I could buy a new VDO tacho for far less than this, but would like to use the matching unit I have if possible. Any help you could provide would be greatly appreciated.

All the best,
J

 

[miha90]

Not sure about the connections or voltage but you might be able to source a tacho from ebay. I found some genuine Volvo ones for half the price of new ones.

 

[rogerthebodger]

This is how my VDO tacho generator is connected.

VDO Tachometer

VDO Tacho Generator - Google Search

 

[Sonofadidley]

Thanks for the input Both.

Roger, that is exactly the diagram that fits the tacho I have. Do you know where the sender/generator attaches to the engine block?

 

[rogerthebodger]

On my Leyland diesel I attached mine to the output shaft of the injector pump I don't know your engine so cannot help unless you can link me to a technical manual.

 

[Sonofadidley]

Thanks Roger. The repair and parts manual suggest the Tach generator attaches at the oil pump. I checked with Bukh and they no longer supply the required adapter plate and drive key. So it looks like a dead end for this route. I will make a post in the Wanted forum just in case.

 

[vyv_cox]

I can offer you some alternatives. I have been messing about with tachometers for a 2 cylinder petrol engine for some time. Many sender units are available from Ebay Chinese sources, most seem to be mounted on the flywheel housing picking up on a slot or hole in the flywheel.

I then used an external driver module from Spiyda.com. They mostly cater for gasoline engines but may also offer similar sender units for diesels. Very knowledgeable guy so worth talking to him.