Buying an inflatable vessel is often just the first step towards creating the perfect fishing or recreational platform. Many owners quickly come to realize that driving the engine while at the stern or in the center of the cockpit is extremely inconvenient and even dangerous. It is at this point that there is an urgent need to upgrade the control by acquiring a quality set of distances, this solution allows you to transfer control of speed and direction of movement to a comfortable zone, which is especially true when driving at high speeds or in difficult navigation.
The modern market offers many options, from simple cable systems to complex electronic control units. boat-distance not only increases comfort, but also significantly affects the safety of the crew, allowing the operator to always keep his hand on the tiller or tiller-commanderIn this article, we will discuss in detail what a complete kit consists of, how to choose reliable components and avoid common installation errors.
It is important to understand that saving on controls can lead to serious consequences at the most inopportune time. Cheap analogues are often made from materials that are not resistant to aggressive marine environments and ultraviolet light. The distance cables must be made of stainless steel with a polymer braid that can withstand thousands of bending cycles without loss of strength. Ignoring this fact can lead to a thrust break and loss of control of the boat.
The composition of the set: what should be included in the set
When looking for a "distance to a boat to buy a kit," many beginners expect to see a universal box containing everything they need. However, the reality is that ready-made kits are rare, and most often you have to build a set of components yourself. The basic kit always includes the control cable itself, the gear shifting mechanism on the motor and the control handle installed on the board or console. The quality of each element directly affects the responsiveness of the motor.
The key element is remote-controlIt's a cable that transfers mechanical force from the gas handle to the carburetor or the engine throttle, and the length of the cable is tailored to the size of the boat and the location of the remote, and the cable that's too long will create unnecessary friction and lashes, and the short one may not reach the mounting point, and the optimal length reserve is 10-15 centimeters for easy stowage.
⚠️ Note: When buying a cable, pay attention to the type of tips. They must match perfectly the seats of your engine and commanding rompell, otherwise you will need a complex and unreliable fit.
The second important component is switch-overIt's a machine that's mounted directly on the engine's lower unit, which converts the linear motion of the cable into the turn of the gear selector lever. PVC boats often use generic models that are attached with clamps or bolts to the lower unit, and some motor models already have built-in openings to connect, which makes it easier to do.
Finishing the kit handle It can be simple traction or more complex, with reverse function and emergency stop button, the choice of a particular model depends on the personal preferences and budget of the owner.
- 🔹 Gas control cable/transmissions of the desired length with tips
- 🔹 Transmission mechanism for installation on lower unit
- 🔹 tiller-commandor (handle) with a tran or board attachment
- 🔹 Set of fastening elements (bolts, clamps, screeds)
- 🔹 Emergency stop cable (check) of the required length
Materials selection: resistance to water and sun
PVC boat operation involves constant contact with water, salt, sand and sunlight. distance-setAircraft grade aluminum alloys, AISI 316 stainless steel and marine plastics are the standards to be guided by when buying, ordinary steel or cheap plastic will quickly become obsolete.
Special attention should be paid to the braiding of the cable, which protects the inner vein from moisture and dirt, and also reduces the friction coefficient when moving, a quality braid should not absorb water, swell or crack in the cold. Polymer coatings Teflon or polyethylene is considered the best choice for harsh conditions, and if the braid is damaged, sand will enter, leading to a wedge of the cable.
The fasteners must also not rust. The use of ordinary black bolts is unacceptable, because after a season they will turn into dust, and the mechanism can come off at the most inopportune moment. stainless steel It is recommended to use the carving lock additionally so that the vibration of the motor does not unwind the connections.
After each trip in salt water, be sure to wash all the elements of the distance with fresh water. The salt cries in the machinery and causes corrosion even of stainless metals.
To protect against UV light, manufacturers often add special stabilizers to the plastic, but even the highest quality material loses its properties over time under the scorching sun. Keeping a boat with a set distance under the awning or indoors will significantly extend the life of the plastic handle elements and the switching mechanism. Do not leave your equipment in direct sunlight for a long time without need.
Instructions for setting distance on the boat
Installation of a remote control system is a process that requires careful and technological attention. Incorrect installation can lead to backlashes, cable jamming or even engine failure. Before starting work, you need to carefully study the instructions for your particular kit, as the designs may differ. The basic principle remains the same: ensure smooth running of the cable and reliable attachment of all components.
The first step is always to mark the mounting points, to determine the optimal position of the control handle so that it can be reached without getting up, then to mark the mounting points of the mechanism on the lower unit of the motor, it is important to ensure the alignment of the rope to avoid fractures and sharp inflections, the radius of the bend of the cable should not be less than the minimum permissible specified by the manufacturer.
The installation process can be divided into several key steps that need to be performed sequentially, skipping any of them can lead to unstable system operation, use only the recommended tool and fastener.
- 🔸 Dismant the regular gas handle and the gear lever from the engine
- 🔸 Install the switching mechanism to lower unit using sealing pads
- 🔸 Secure the commandor tiller on the transom or on board the PVC boat
- 🔸 Stretch the cable from the handle to the motor, avoiding sharp corners and tension
- 🔸 Connect the cables to the mechanisms and adjust the stroke length (gas and transmissions)
☑️ Post-installing check
After mechanical fastening, adjustment must be made. Tune the length of the cable critically, if it's too tight, the gears will shift with force, and the gas may not open completely. If the cable hangs, you lose control accuracy. Adjustment is done by moving the tips of the cable or changing the attachment point of the shell.
⚠️ Attention: Never pull the rope into the string. There must be a small free ride left, so that when the engine turns and the boat is rolled, there is no spontaneous addition of gas or shifting of gears.
Comparison of models and manufacturers
There are many brands on the market that offer remote control components, from low-cost Chinese counterparts to eminent European and American manufacturers. The price difference can be tenfold, but is it justified? For mid-range PVC boats, it often makes no sense to overpay for brands, but it is dangerous to take a frank "nouname."
Famous brands such as Teleflex, Morse or YamahaThey offer proven solutions with a guarantee of quality, their products are precision, use the best materials and long lifespan, but the cost of such kits can be a significant part of the budget. For most amateur anglers, specialized brands operating in the PVC tuning market of boats will be an excellent choice.
Below is a comparative table of popular component options available in the market to help you navigate your choices.
| Type of kit | Material of the cable | Average price | Term of service | Guarantee |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Budgetary (China) | Steel + PVC | Low. | 1-2 seasons | No. 14 days. |
| Middle class (Special Brands) | Nerzh. steel + Polymer | Medium | 3-5 years | 1 year |
| Premium (Teleflex/Morse) | 316 AISI + Teflon | High. | 7 years | 2-3 years |
| Original (Motor) | Depends on the model. | High. | 5 years | 1 year |
When choosing a replacement, you should consider the availability of spare parts, and if you wear out the cable after two years, you should be able to buy exactly the same or compatible. Universality of thread And tips play a key role here, and many specialty stores offer compatible products that are as good as the originals, but are cheaper.
Secrets of the longevity of cables
Lubricate the cables with a special silicone grease for the cables once a season, which will wash away the sand and create a protective film that prevents corrosion of the inner vein and reduces friction.
Service and typical problems
Even the best quality. distance-set It requires regular maintenance. Water, sand and salt do their job by gradually breaking down the machinery. The basic rule is a visual inspection before each trip and a thorough wash after. Check the cable braid for cracks and rubs. Any damage to the shell is a signal for immediate replacement of the cable, as internal corrosion may already have begun.
A common problem is the tightness of the cable or the jamming of the switching lever, often involving dirt or lubrication, in which case the cable must be dismantled, washed with solvent, dried and re-greased, and if the problem persists, the cable may be deformed or have internal damage to the turns.
Another common issue is backlash in joints. Over time, threaded joints can weaken with vibration. Regularly check the tightening of all bolts and nuts. Use a thread lock when reassembling. Also monitor the condition. plastic-built in places of attachment of the rope - their abrasion leads to the appearance of free passage of the handle.
- 🔹 Regularly lubricate the moving parts with silicone lubricant
- 🔹 Wash with fresh water after each release to the water.
- 🔹 Check the tightening of fasteners before the season
- 🔹 Replace the cable at the first sign of damage to the braid
If you notice that the engine stopped stalling while pulling emergency checks, the problem could be a cable cliff check or a magnet shift, a critical malfunction that needs to be fixed immediately, and crew safety depends on the health of all systems, including emergency ones.
Regular maintenance is cheaper than replacing the entire kit. Take 15 minutes to lubricate and wash to extend the life of the equipment for years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can you set the distance to any outboard motor?
Virtually any two-stroke or four-stroke engine with a power of 2 hp can be remotely controlled, with the exception of some specific models with integrated control system or very old engines without regular mounting places, in which case special adapters or adapters are required.
How long should I choose for a boat 3.5 meters long?
For a boat with a length of 3.5 meters, usually enough cable length of 3 meters. However, it is better to measure the distance from the place of installation of the handle to the engine along the shortest path, taking into account the bends and take a cable with a margin of 30-50 cm.
Do I need to change the cables every season?
No, quality cables last 3-5 years or more with proper maintenance, and you don't need to change them every season unless you have visible damage, corrosion or running problems, and regular lubrication and flushing greatly increase your resource.
What is the difference between a gas cable and a transmission cable?
Often it's the same cable (in single-tether systems), but some configurations may use separate cables for gas and gear shifting. The main difference may be in the length and type of tips. Always check your motor specification before buying.
Can you make a distance yourself?
Theoretically, you can use cables from other equipment, but it's dangerous. Home-made systems often lack the necessary reliability and safety margin. A cable break at speed can lead to uncontrolled boat movement. Certified kits are recommended.