Many inflatable boat owners will come to the conclusion that steering a motor with a rummel is exhausting, especially when you go long walks or troll fishing, and that's when the PVC boat console comes on to the scene, turning a normal inflatable ram into a comfortable boat. Steering rack Not only does it add aesthetics, but it also drastically changes the ergonomics of the control, allowing the operator to sit rather than stand in an uncomfortable position, constantly pulling the handle of the motor.
The transition to remote control requires not only the purchase of the cabinet itself, but also an understanding of the principles of its operation, compatibility with your computer. outboard and features of installation on the soft board. Installation of the console on a PVC boat is possible only in the presence of a hard floor (floorboards), since the inflatable floor will not withstand the weight of the structure and operator. In this article, we will analyze all the nuances, from the choice of material to the final setup of the cables.
The modern market offers many options, from the simplest consoles to full-fledged remotes with a dashboard. The right choice of equipment directly affects the safety and enjoyment of swimming. It is important to consider not only the cost, but also the weight of the design, because for light boats, every extra kilogram can become critical.
Why you need a steering console: the benefits of modernization
The main purpose of the steering rack is comfort. When you drive a motor from 5 hp and up, the physical fatigue from the constant rotation of the crankpill accumulates very quickly. Remote control It allows you to relax your back and arms by focusing on navigation or finding fish, and it also allows you to put additional instruments, such as a sonar or GPS, right in front of your eyes.
Another important aspect is safety. At high speeds or when you're excited, it can be difficult to hold the hummel with both hands, and it can be difficult to control with one hand. The console captures the position of the throttle, allowing you to maneuver more freely. steering-wheel It gives more accurate control over the course of the vessel, which is especially important when mooring or moving in narrowness.
And don't forget to protect the equipment. Many modern consoles have built-in battery compartments, which allow you to remove the heavy battery from under your feet and protect it from splashes. This also improves the weight of the boat, shifting the center of gravity closer to the center of the diametric plane.
- 🚤 Reduced physical load on the operator during long transitions.
- 🎣 Possibility of installation of navigation equipment in the line of sight zone.
- 🔋 Hidden and safe placement of the battery.
- 🛡️ Protection of control cables from mechanical damage and ultraviolet radiation.
⚠️ Attention: Installing a heavy console on a transom or paiola boat of small size (less than 3 meters) can disrupt stability and shift the center of gravity too far at the stern, which will lead to the nose burrowing in the wave.
Types of structures: tiller or full-fledged steering
When choosing equipment, the first thing you need to decide on the type of control that supports your engine. If you have a low-power engine (up to 5-6 hp), which structurally does not have an output under the cables, you will be suitable for you. console-headThis is a sloping bench that holds the cord extension of the hummel, and the mechanism transmits the force from the handle to the motor tube through the thrusts or cables inside the rack.
For more powerful motors equipped with a remote control system (DRC), a full-fledged engine is required. steering-console In this case, the steering wheel is hydraulically or mechanically turned through cables connected to the motor gearbox, which are more massive, require more space to install, and tend to have a more complex installation system.
There are also generic models that allow you to switch between modes or have removable elements, and the choice depends on your plans to upgrade the engine in the future. If you are planning to buy a more powerful engine, it makes sense to immediately take a full rack.
It's important to note that the tiller consoles are often cheaper and easier to install, because they don't require cables to be laid to the motor itself, but only mechanically connected to the handle. Steering Cable and gas cables, the length of which must correspond exactly to the distance from the remote to the transom.
Manufacture materials: plastic, aluminum or composite
Aggressive aquatic environments dictate their material requirements, and most budget consoles are made of impact-resistant plastic (ABS or polyethylene). Plastic cabinets They are corrosive, easy to care for and attractive, but they can burn out in the sun and become fragile in the cold.
Aluminum structures, often covered with powder paint, are characterized by high strength and rigidity. Aluminum alloy (usually D16T or similar) can withstand heavy loads, but requires careful protection against galvanic corrosion, especially in salt water.
Composite materials and fiberglass are less common and are usually premium or homemade, and they allow for complex streamlined shapes, but repairing them in the event of damage is more difficult than restoring plastic or metal.
| Materials | Weight. | Corrosion resistance | Price. |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plastic (ABS) | Low. | High. | Low. |
| aluminum | Medium/High | Medium (requires protection) | Medium |
| Stainless steel | Highly | Very high. | High. |
| Fiberglass | Medium. | High. | High. |
When buying an aluminum console, be sure to check the quality of painting the ends and places of drilling - this is where corrosion most often begins.
Selection criteria: size, compatibility and functionality
When choosing a console, you need to consider the dimensions of your boat. For models up to 3.2 meters long, compact console-rumples are optimal, which do not take up much useful space in the cockpit. For boats from 3.6 meters and above, you can consider full-fledged steering racks with space for two batteries and a large dashboard.
The key is motor compatibility, and make sure that the height of the rack allows you to comfortably steer the steering wheel while sitting on the can. ergonomics It can also be used to check for universal sounder mounting mounts, as standard holes may not match your equipment.
Pay attention to the quality of the fittings. The fasteners must be made of stainless steel. Plastic screws will quickly lose their properties when exposed to the sun and water. glove-box Or a niche for the little things will be a nice bonus.
⚠️ Attention: Don’t buy a console that is more than 25-30% of the boat’s interior width, making boarding and moving inside the boat extremely uncomfortable and dangerous.
The functionality can also include built-in USB connectors for charging gadgets, 12V sockets for connecting the radio station and LED lighting of the dashboard, all of which require additional wiring, which should be considered when planning installation.
The Secrets of Ergonomics
The optimal height of the steering column is calculated as follows: sitting in a boat in a life jacket, your hands on the steering wheel should be bent at the elbows at an angle of 90-100 degrees. Too high or low steering wheel will lead to rapid fatigue of the shoulder girdle.
Instructions for installing the console on the PVC boat
The installation of the steering rack is a responsible process that requires carefulness, the base of the console must be rigidly fixed on floorboards, often using an additional plywood pad that distributes the load over a large area, preventing the floor from being pushed through. Firming It is carried out by bolts through reinforced washers.
If you're going to install full steering, the first step is to lay the cables, the gas and reverse cables, and the steering cables, and you have to go from console to motor without tension, but also without the big loops that might get caught. Use plastic clamps or special clips to fix the cables along the side.
☑️ Preparation for installation
Connecting the cables to the motor requires following the instructions of the engine manufacturer. It is important to adjust the length of the gas cable correctly so that when the valve is fully open, the cable clamp does not leave the socket, and when closed, the engine steadily kept idle turns. Transmission gearbox It should work clearly, without interruptions.
After the mechanical installation, you need to check the entire system on land, ask the assistant to turn the steering wheel while you watch the gearbox of the motor, the course should be smooth, without jerks, only once you make sure that you are working, you can launch the boat to the water for tests.
⚠️ Attention: When drilling holes in floorboards (if necessary), be sure to treat the edges of the hole with moisture-resistant varnish or epoxy to prevent plywood from stratification.
Maintenance and care of the steering system
Like any equipment, the console requires regular maintenance. After every watering, especially if it was a sea fishing, rinse all metal parts with fresh water, including the steering wheel and mounts. Salt destroys even stainless steel with prolonged exposure.
Once a season, it is recommended to lubricate the moving mechanisms of the cables and hinges of the steering column with specialized lubrication, for example, Lithium Grease It's going to prevent acidification and keep the gently running. Lubricant It also removes moisture from hard-to-reach places.
Check the condition of the cables for rubs and clatters. Damaged braiding of the cable is a signal for immediate replacement, as a break in the water can lead to loss of control. Plastic elements wipe with UV filters to preserve the color and structure of the material.
Regular maintenance of control cables extends their service life by 2-3 times and guarantees safety on the water.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a console on a boat without a hard floor?
No, the installation of a heavy steering rack on the inflatable floor is strictly prohibited. The design must rely on rigid floorboards (plywood or aluminum), otherwise it will sell the cylinders or shift at the most inopportune moment.
Will the console fit from one company to the engine of another?
Most consoles are versatile and have standard seats for steering wheels and appliances, but the attachments to a particular motor (especially cables) can vary, so it is often necessary to buy adapters or separate sets of cables.
How hard is it to get it back if you have to fold the boat?
If the console is removable (on bolts), the process takes 10-15 minutes. Removable consoles are dismantled even faster. Constantly reeling the boat with the console installed is inconvenient and harmful to floorboards, so it is better to have a quick-removal mount.
What motor is required to install the steering wheel?
To install a full-fledged steering wheel, the motor must be able to connect remote control cables (usually these are motors from 5 hp and above, but not all).