Comfort and safety of the boat control directly depend on the quality of the equipment installed on board. Steering console for the boat It's a central hub that connects engine controls, navigation devices and protection, and a well-chosen model not only adorns the cockpit, but also significantly reduces operator fatigue during long transitions.
The water-motor market offers dozens of options, from simple plywood panels to complex composite structures with integrated niches. Owners of PVC boats In light metal boats, you often have to compromise between weight, strength and functionality, and in this article, we’ll look at the key aspects of choosing to keep your equipment lasting for years.
Materials of manufacture and their impact on the operation
The first thing to look out for when buying is the material the case is made of. sea-aluminumAluminum alloys such as AMG do not rust even in constant contact with salt water, making them ideal for use in coastal areas.
The second popular material is fiberglass, which allows you to create complex aerodynamic shapes and integrate design elements directly into the structure of the product. High-quality fiberglass is much heavier than aluminumThis is critical for light inflatable boats, where every kilogram affects the performance.
The budget segment is represented by models of moisture-resistant plywood coated with plastic or paint, which are often assembled independently or bought from private craftsmen.
- 🛡️ Aluminum: light, does not rust, but can be noisy when the waves hit the side.
- 🚤 Glass plastic: It is beautiful, quiet, but heavy and difficult to repair in case of serious damage.
- 🪵 Plywood: cheap, maintainable, but requires constant maintenance of the coating to avoid stratification.
The choice of material is dictated by the type of boat you are on. metal boat It is better to fit a welded aluminum console, and for a cruising PVC boat - a lightweight composite or plywood.
Ergonomics and workplace layout
Ease of control is not just a soft seat, but also a competent location of devices. Steering wheel. The device must be at an optimum height so that the operator's arms do not leak. Modern models often provide for adjusting the tilt of the hummel or the torpedo itself.
It's important to think about the placement of navigation electronics, sonars, GPS navigators and radars require not only physical attachment, but also protection from splashes and direct sunlight. Visor. over the dashboard is a must-have element that is often overlooked when buying budget models.
⚠️ Note: When installing appliances, make sure that they do not overlap the view on (forward) and do not interfere with the control of the tiller gas if it is used as a backup.
You also have to pay attention to the foot space. steering-console It's not going to be the captain's knee, otherwise it's going to be torture, and the depth of the seat and the ability to adjust the chair are crucial.
Use anti-slip mats on the shelf for appliances - this will prevent the gadgets from slipping when pitching strongly.
Compatibility with boat types and fastening methods
There are no universal solutions, so manufacturers offer different installation schemes. squirt-board Or directly to the cylinders through special belts and platforms, and it is important that the attachment points are not rubbed against the PVC fabric, otherwise you can not avoid wiping.
In metal boats, the console is usually rigidly fixed to floorboards or welded brackets at the bottom, and vibration is critical here, because constant vibration from the motor can destroy the electronics mounts. Rubber dampers The base console is an excellent solution for reducing noise and vibration.
Some models are designed specifically for RIB boat (hard bottom boats) have integrated mounting points that match the geometry of the cockpit. Be sure to check the dimensions of the product with the width of your cockpit before buying.
PVC anchorage nuances
When attaching the console to the cylinders, use wide slings with soft linings. The point pressure of the belts can deform the balloon in the sun, so tension is mandatory.
Integration of control systems and electrical equipment
A modern boat is unthinkable without electricity, and the console must hold not only the appliances, but the entire switchboard. batteryIdeally, a battery compartment with ventilation should be arranged inside the housing.
The wiring must be hidden, through special cable channels or corrugated wires, and open wires quickly become unusable from ultraphylete and salt spray. Marine electronics requires high-quality isolation of all contacts, preferably using thermal shrinkage with adhesive layer.
Pay special attention to the installation site gearboxThe mechanism should be readily available for lubrication and maintenance, but protected from direct water. Many consoles have a cutout for standard gearbox sizes, which makes installation easier.
| Parameter | Budgetary option | Middle class | Premium segment |
|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | Plywood/Plastic | Aluminum AMG | Carbon/Plastic glass |
| IP protection | Missing. | Spray protection | Complete leakproofness |
| Installation | manually | Standard fasteners | Integrated system |
| Weight. | Low. | Medium. | Highly |
| Price. | Low. | Medium | High. |
Quality wiring inside the console is more important than an expensive brand of appliances – poor contact will lead to system failure at the most inopportune moment.
Instructions for DIY installation
Installation of the steering console is a process that requires precision and adherence to technology, and errors at this stage can lead to loss of control or failure of expensive electronics. Below is an algorithm for the standard installation of PVC or aluminum on a boat.
First, you need to mark the installation site, the console should be placed strictly in the center of the transom or cockpit, so as not to disturb the balance of the boat, use the building level to check the horizontal.
☑️ Checklist before editing
Then there's the drilling phase, and in metal boats, the edges of the holes are necessarily treated with anticort, and in PVC boats, reinforced washers or pads are placed under the anchorage. Steering cable It is laid in compliance with the minimum bend radius specified by the manufacturer (usually at least 20-30 cm).
⚠️ Warning: Never overdo the steering cable with sharp corners - this will lead to jamming of the mechanism and loss of controllability on the go.After mechanical fixation, electrical power is connected, all connections must be soldered or clamped with special terminals, and check all systems on the shore before first stepping out.
Care and maintenance in the offseason
To keep the steering console lasting, it needs to be taken care of. Aluminum is recommended to be polished regularly with special compounds to prevent oxidation. Plastics are washed with a soft sponge with auto shampoo, abrasives can not be used.
In the winter storage period, it is better to dismantle or reliably conserve the console. Reductor mechanism should be lubricated with marine lithium, and the electrical connectors should be treated with a spray-moisture suppressor.
Check the tightening of the fasteners regularly. Vibration on water can weaken even well-twisted joints. Pay special attention to the places of attachment to the transom - this is the zone of maximum load.
Seasonal storage
If you leave a console on a boat in the garage, cover it with a breathing case.
What is the maximum size of the sounder screen that can be set?
The size depends on the size of your console. Standard cutouts allow you to put screens up to 7-9 inches. Large 12-inch displays often require an individual console order or a self-insertion, which can weaken the design.
Can I paint an aluminum console in a different color?
Yes, but only with special aluminium soil enamels (such as zinc), the usual paint will quickly peel off, the surface must be thoroughly cleaned and degreased before painting.
Do I need to ground the console?
In the boat’s electrical circuit, all metal parts in contact with electrical equipment must be connected to the battery’s negative terminal to protect against wandering currents, but the console itself as a body does not require grounding if it is isolated from water.
What to do if you rust the fastener?
Use penetrating lubricant (WD-40 and analogs). If the bolt doesn't unscrew, try to gently heat it with a building hair dryer (careful of plastic!) or drill a hat.
How to protect the console from ultraviolet light?
Use UV filter sprays for plastic and apply polymer regularly, and cover the equipment with an awning or a cover while you park.