Check the voltage at the gauges. There may be a problem when the load
increases. Old boats have lots of bad connections. Another
possibility is that the alternator is doing something bad. Again check
the voltage when running.

sonofadocker wrote:
My boat has sat idle for many years. it is 30 years old. Each day it is
used it works better and better.

my question is for the dash gauges.

when my ignition key is moved to the accessory position all my gauges
show true readings.
as soon as the boat is started the fuel, power trim, engine temp all go
to the far left.

another new problem has been the starter. my cables are clean and
connected properly. but i have to start the boat by jumping the starter
with a screw driver.

any help would be great.

sonofadocker