Controlling an inflatable motorized boat tiller often causes fatigue of the hands and back, especially during long transitions or on high wave. Installing a stationary steering system makes a difference by allowing you to sit in a comfortable chair and confidently control the course of the vessel. PVC steering console It becomes the central element of modernization, turning a simple inflatable boat into a full-fledged small boat with an increased level of comfort.
The modern market offers many solutions, from simple plastic panels to complex composite structures with integrated dashboards, the choice of the right model depends not only on the budget of the owner, but also on the design features of the boat itself, as well as the power of the installed engine. control-console Not only does it facilitate navigation, but it also allows navigation devices, sonars and batteries to be safely placed.
In this article, we will discuss all aspects of the choice in detail, compare popular materials and designs, and also consider the nuances of installation to make your boat as convenient as possible for fishing or recreation. Proper organization of the captain’s workplace is the key to safety and pleasure from each get on the water.
Design features and types of steering consoles
All existing models on the market can be divided into several main types according to the method of installation and design. folding-consoleThis is a sleeve that is attached to the transom or bow of the boat with brackets, which allows you to quickly fold the steering when transporting or storing the boat in a deflated form, which is critical for owners who do not have a permanent place on the water.
The second type is stationaryThey're mounted on a hard floorboard or a transom plate, and they provide maximum stiffness and stability, but they require more complex installation and take up more space. Often they're equipped with windshield, which not only protects against splashes, but also serves as an additional support for attachment.
⚠️ Warning: When choosing a folding model, be sure to check the quality of hinges and locks. Cheap hinges can backlash at high speed, leading to inaccurate control and a potentially dangerous situation on the water.
The third option is modular systems that are assembled from individual elements directly for a particular boat, which allow you to create a unique configuration of the workplace by placing battery shelves, gear drawers and rod mounts in exactly the way that the owner is comfortable. Modularity It gives flexibility, but requires careful planning and, possibly, self-development of some nodes.
Why is the aerodynamics of the console important?
At high speeds (from 40 km/h), even a small console creates sailing. Models with a streamlined profile or the ability to install a windshield reduce the resistance to the oncoming air flow, which saves fuel and reduces the load on the transom of the boat.
Manufacture materials: plastic, metal or composite
The durability of the steering console depends on the material it's made of. In the face of aggressive aqueous environments, ultraviolet light and temperature changes, this parameter comes to the fore. plastic It is non-corrosion, easy to wash and has a low weight, but can be less durable when exposed to shocks or heat in the sun.
Aluminum alloys, especially aviation aluminum with anti-corrosion coating, are the “gold standard” for serious aqueous engines. Aluminum consoles They are highly rigid, can withstand heavy loads and are well combined with metal transom plates, their main disadvantage is the higher cost and risk of electrochemical corrosion when in contact with other metals in salt water, unless insulation measures are taken.
- 🌊 Plastic: Light, cheap, does not rust, but can crack from the impact and burn out in the sun.
- ⚓ Aluminum: durable, tough, expensive, requires protection from galvanic corrosion.
- 🛡️ Composite (glass-plastic): high strength, the possibility of a complex shape, repairable, but heavier than plastic.
Composite materials such as fiberglass are often used in prefabricated solutions that allow complex streamlined shapes and integrated niches. However, when the helcoat is damaged, professional repair is required to keep moisture out of the material structure. Material selection should be based on operating conditions: there is enough quality plastic for quiet fishing on the lake, and for sea trips, it is better to consider aluminum.
If you choose a plastic console, choose models with UV stabilizers in the material, which will prevent the appearance of microcracks and color changes after 2-3 seasons of active use.
Selection criteria: size, compatibility and functionality
Before buying, you need to carefully measure the dimensions of your boat, especially the width of the cockpit and the distance from the transom to the first transom cylinder. Steering console The optimum width of the base usually varies from 40 to 60 cm, which allows you to place a standard steering gearbox and dashboard.
The most important aspect is compatibility with the type of steering mechanism. gearbox (Sturtross system), and models for direct output of the rummel (although the latter is less common and less effective). Make sure that the model chosen has the necessary holes or universal platform for attaching your type of gearbox.
The functionality of the modern console is not limited to the steering wheel holder.
- 🔋 A compartment or shelf for the installation of a splash-proof battery.
- 📟 Fastening (brackets) for sonar, navigator or smartphone.
- 💡 Opportunities for mounting the illumination of the dashboard for night navigation.
Also worth considering is the ergonomics of the steering wheel, the height of the mount should allow you to comfortably control the boat both sitting and standing, without touching the bottom of the knees. Some advanced models are equipped with adjustable brackets, which allows you to adjust the position of the steering wheel to the height of the captain.
Comparative table of popular models
To make it easier to choose, we have prepared a comparison of several popular types of consoles on the market, these parameters will help you navigate the variety of offers and choose the best option for your tasks.
| Model/Type | Materials | Compatibility (boat length) | Features |
|---|---|---|---|
| Universal folding | Marine plastic | 3.2. to 4.5 m | Easy, budget, no place under the battery |
| Aluminum Boat. | Aluminum AD31 | 3.6 - 5.0 m | High strength, windbreaker complete |
| Modular system | Composite/Plastic | 4.0 - 6.0 m | Expandable, spaces under 2 AKB and appliances |
| Tranza mini-console | Stainless steel | 3.0 - 3.8 m | Minimalism, only under the wheel and gas |
When analyzing the table, it is worth considering that more expensive models often pay off at the expense of durability and the possibility of upgrading, for example, the availability of space for additional appliances will eliminate the need to drill plastic or glue suction cups in the future.
Instructions for the installation of steering
Installation of the steering console is a process that requires precision and adherence to technology, because it depends on the safety of the control. It starts with marking the mounting places to the transom or paiole. It is important to use only stainless fasteners (bolts, nuts, washers) to avoid corrosion.
The next step is to install the steering gearbox, and if the console does not have built-in space for it, you will need to attach the bracket, and the sturtrosses (steering cables) should be laid so that they do not rub on sharp corners or friction on the side.
☑️ Checklist before first launch
⚠️ Attention: When the steering cables are laid, the bend radius should not be less than the minimum permissible for this model (usually at least 15-20 cm).
After the mechanical installation, you need to connect the remote gas system (if it is designed) and check the operation of the entire mechanism on land, the steering wheel should rotate smoothly, without jerks, and the motor on the transom should follow the steering wheel exactly, only after successful testing you can get on the water.
High-quality installation involves the use of fixing compositions for threaded joints (for example, anaerobic sealant), since vibration from the motor can weaken even tightly tight nuts in one season.
Maintenance and care of the steering console
Even the best quality. PVC steering console After each exit, especially in salt water, all metal elements must be washed with fresh water, not only in visible parts, but also in hinges where salt can accumulate.
Once a season, it is recommended to conduct an audit of the moving parts: lubricate the reclining loops, check the condition of the steering cables for braiding. Plastic surfaces are better treated with special polyroles with a UV filter to preserve their appearance and structure.
- 🧼 Wash: Use a soft sponge and neutral detergents, avoid abrasives.
- 🔧 Lubricant: Apply silicone or lithium lubricants that are resistant to leaching.
- 🌡️ Storage: In the winter, it is better to dismantle the console and store it in a warm room to avoid deformation of plastic from frost.
Timely maintenance will extend the life of the equipment and ensure that when the maneuver is needed, the steering will not fail. Neglecting the lubrication of the hinges can lead to the fact that in a couple of seasons the console will simply jam in the open or closed position.
What to do if you rust the fastener?
If the bolts are rusty, don't try to tear them off by force, you can damage the plastic. Treat the thread with penetrating lubricant (WD-40 or analog), leave for 15-20 minutes, then try to unscrew carefully. If you don't, drill the hat carefully so as not to damage the base.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I install a steering console on a boat without a hard transom?
Installing a full-fledged console on a soft-translated boat is possible, but requires the installation of an additional transom board. The stove distributes the load from the weight of the console, the motor and the steering wheel. Without a hard base, the console will deform the soft transnect, which is not safe.
Which gearbox is better to choose: hydraulic or mechanical?
For boats up to 5 meters long and engines up to 50-60 hp, a high-quality mechanical gearbox is quite enough. Hydraulics are justified on larger boats or at very high speeds, where exceptional smoothness and lack of backlashes are required, but it is much more expensive and difficult to maintain.
Do I need to remove the console when transporting a boat in a trailer?
If the console is folding, it's enough to fold it down. If it's stationary, it depends on the height of the structure and the awning, and often tall consoles have to be dismantled or tilted to get under the awning or not create excessive wind resistance when driving on the highway.
Does the installation of the console affect the speed of the boat?
Yes, it does. The console creates additional drag and sailing. The speed loss can be anywhere from 2 to 5 km/h depending on the shape of the console and the windshield, but the loss of speed is offset by increased comfort and the ability to operate the boat with one hand.