Outboard and Cockpit Controls

Ron20324 · Sep 30, 2014

I have seen links- like a drag link on a car- to connect the OB to an external rudder and move the OB along with the tiller. You can turn on a dime that way.

Charlie Jones s/v Tehani · Sep 30, 2014

Depending on your outboard, there are remotes. Yamaha for one has cable driven controls for shift and throttle, and you can buy longer sets. I've seen outboard controls mounted on the tiller on a trimaran.

And it's not a bad idea, if it makes her more comfortable handling the boat.

Sumner · Sep 30, 2014

I devised a way to connect or disconnect the tiller from the outboard quickly and Ruth really liked it when we docked or anchored as it gave her control and the ability to maneuver the boat easily.

More on how it was made and also how the other controls were made to work easier (go down the menu towards the bottom of the page) ....

http://purplesagetradingpost.com/sumner/macgregor/outside-index.html

Sumner

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Charlie Jones s/v Tehani · Sep 30, 2014

I didn't get the impression that steering or turning the engine was the problem.

Indication was shift and throttle handling. And if the engine is on a mount on the stern. and most of the Catalina 25 pictures show that, I can see her problem.

topcat0399 · Sep 30, 2014

Kper said:
I like Sumner's setup but I don't think that would work in my situation. I haven't given up on that just yet, though. Initially I was imagining some kind of cable set up attaching the tiller and motor handle. Of course I'd have to mount the cable in such a way that both turned in unison and was easily removable.

What I wouldn't give for heated winter storage in my back yard. I suppose I should be happy with at least having it indoors, eh?

I feel your pain on all of it. Our starting procedure: [hang off the back of boat] [tilt/run lever] {climb on boat} {put motor down} {hang back off boat with 2 hands avail for engine} [tiller handle/throttle up] [choke out] [start button] {choke in} [tiller handle/throttle down][ [shift lever] climb on boat make way if engine doesn't stall.

Last Saturday night I was reminded of what a nut roll all that can be when we unexpectedly found our selves on a lee shore in the wee dark hours.

The Admiral can do it but shes a little intimidated by it.

I have a plan to install some kind of remote system but there are down sides to those things also so I have analysis paralysis.

As far as the winter and your storage - you can heat it; its more a question of tarps how much fuel you have to burn....

Charlie Jones s/v Tehani · Sep 30, 2014

LOL- There ARE advantages to outboard wells. Of course the disadvantage is the lower unit has to be antifouled, since it's always in the water

Joe · Sep 30, 2014

If you are asking us if a remote controlled outboard is more convenient than a tiller? ABSOLUTELY. I your outboard manufacturer doesn't make a remote kit for your motor, you might consider this product:

http://powertiller.com/Demonstration.htm

EnginesForward · Oct 1, 2014

remote control

Ron20324 said:
I have seen links- like a drag link on a car- to connect the OB to an external rudder and move the OB along with the tiller. You can turn on a dime that way.

I am thinking of adding remote engine controls forward or incorporate a way of clamping the engine controls in other locations if the need arises. I also am toying with the idea of using a 12 Volt gate opener/closer to control the rudder from a forward or in an emergency from inside the cabin with a switch and a long cable I may even incorporate a video camera so I can see ahead when using a genoa. I have a lot of junk in my workshop and I may as well put it to use. I spent 4 years on a Diesel Submarine and learned how to jury-rig and make things work. The name of my boat "Ahooga X 3".

Crazy Dave Condon · Oct 1, 2014

Kper;

What year and hp is your motor. also take a few photos of the engine, back of transom and the rear cockpit. I will need to know your model and serial number of the engine.
Send it to davecondon@mindspring.com and I will assist. Use to put them on when I was also a Catalina dealer as well on my Hunters.

Dave condon

BudGates · Oct 1, 2014

I've done both mods that you're asking about on two different boats. On the first boat the outboard was almost out of reach. For motoring long distances it wasn't a problem but maneuvering in tight spaces was a real pain. I love having both a remote control for the motor and having tiller to outboard steering. I wouldn't want to be without either of them again.

I used this guy's ideas for the steering. http://cpyoa.geekworkshosting.com/forum/index.php?topic=2808.0

Gudenuph · Oct 1, 2014

Just a quick tip for hand cranking an outboard engine. Make a bight in a suitable length of 3/8" line and slip it over the handle of the start cord. This allows you to stand, brace yourself, and pull with both hands from a comfortable position.

George

Outboard and Cockpit Controls

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