Drive Remote - Repair or Replace

[MadNutta]

Hi all,
My 253 Convincor has the stock Commander 3000 classic style panel mount (side) remote control.

I'm having troubles with it, in that the Throttle only button doesn't appear to be working (tried replacing, but then it wouldn't pop out... so I've broken 2.... fortunately only a $3.50 part..

From those with more experience, is it worth pulling this one apart a bit more, or should I consider upgrading? If so, what would you guys choose to replace? It's no show boat... It's no racer either.

I'm also figuring an upgrade is probably best left to professionals - though the parts and cables are readily available... I'm reasonably handy, though I did have 7 supervisers on the weekend when I needed to replace my plugs

The biggest challenge I have is that without the ability to open the throttle a bit to start it, it 's too easy to flood it. Couldn't get it to start on Sunday as a result.

Thanks!
Jeff

 

[KevinR]

Replace I had the same one and replaced it with this one.

 

[MadNutta]

Thanks.
Did you do it yourself?
What brand is it?
Hope to have a quote from my local marina tomorrow.

Nice looking boat, btw!

 

[KevinR]

Did it myself. It's just a newer Merc version.

 

[MadNutta]

Marina just quoted $1200-1300 to do this. 650 in parts and 550 in labor...

Now inclined to do it myself too... Anyone know the lengths of the shift and throttle cables on a '97 253 convincor w/ Merc 454 and Bravo1?

J

 

[keith4216]

$650 in parts?
You can get the same shifter as Kevin for $250.

 

[MadNutta]

I figured I could spend around $300 for the shifter, and then $65 or so per cable.
Just not sure the length. Hopefully I can figure that out and get everything together before next weekend. Would be nice to actually use the boat!

I suppose it it's a Merc shifter it may work with the OEM cables, but I figure they're due for replacement.

 

[RNGRDVE]

Since you're replacing the cables and need the length why not go ahead and remove them so you can get exact measurements of what know works.

 

[RNGRDVE]

If you can find a way to switch to offshore style controls you won't regret it.

 

[MadNutta]

As a neophyte... Ya lost me...
but piqued my interest!
Is that with separate throttle and drive like this?


I have found a control from Teleflex that will let me keep my cables (for now) and drop it in.. around $400 with trim, tilt, warm up.

 

[MadNutta]

Since you're replacing the cables and need the length why not go ahead and remove them so you can get exact measurements of what know works.

Boat is 2.5 hrs away from me, so I was hoping to collect parts before I went down there next.

I think I just need to spend a week at the lake!.. Solve all my problems!

 

[RNGRDVE]

That's exactly what I'm talking about. This isn't the best picture but here's the controls in my 253.

And here's a more direct replacement for what you have.
http://eddiemarine.com/shop/controls/elite-billet-controls/elite-billet-aluminum-side-mount-shifter

Dock side manners are a lot nicer with this set up.

 

[MadNutta]

Teh Sex!

What did you do for trailer/tilt button?

 

[RNGRDVE]

My trim switch is at the top of my throttle. I just remembered I had some pics on my phone from when I disconnected trim on wheel and moved to throttle.

I don't have a separate switch for trailer.

 

[MadNutta]

Great pics!
Ordered a simpler all in one. Perhaps a future upgrade but with many inexperienced drivers on the boat, not forgetting neutral is important.
Will take some pics of the re/re this weekend

 

[ezstriper]

all the single lever ones are junk to me...separate ones the only way to go, CP performance has a 2 lever to go in the single opening and use old cables

 

[MadNutta]

Well, it's been more than a few hours work but the shifter is installed.
Unfortunately now the boat is in reverse, when it should be in neutral, and is revving too high.
Anyone done this before that can comment?

Is it cable adjustment? I followed the de(in)structions!!!
Miller time now... Maybe a couple beers will illuminate my fault...



Jeff

 

[MadNutta]

100% my own error.
Labeled the cables wrong on the removal of the old.


Just have a bit of sticking when it comes back to idle... Otherwise back in business