Combining throttle and gear

labatt · #1 (**permalink**) 10-21-2006

All -

We chartered a custom sloop this summer that had the throttle and gear select (forward/reverse/neutral) combined into a single lever. It was the coolest thing since sliced bread - especially when trying to maneuver in very tight quarters (one hand on wheel, one hand on throttle/gear to go forward, then reverse, then forward etc.). Is this something that can be easily retrofitted onto an existing two lever system?

Thanks!

Chris

sailingdog · #2 (**permalink**) 10-21-2006

I don't see it being a huge issue. The cables for the throttle and transmission are pretty much the same as used in a two lever system. The transmission cable goes on to a cam-action type piece that controls the shifting. One serious advantage to the single lever type setup is that it is far easier on the transmission than the two lever setups can be...no more shifting from reverse into neutral and then into forward (or from foward to reverse) at high RPM.

PBzeer · #3 (**permalink**) 10-21-2006

Had the shift cable on my boat break this year. Due to age, it wasn't feasible to replace it in the original position. Instead, I fashioned a lever that mounted on the pedestal guard. If I had been more insightful, could have easily made it a single lever for shift and speed. So it's certainly doable. though I'm not sure how easy it would be if retrofitting to the pedestal itself. Would mostly depend on where the stop (holds the cable in place before the lever) is located. If you wanted to spend the bucks, Edson has a pedestal guard unit for around $800. Mine cost me less than $150, and 90 of that was the lever itself.

Regards,

labatt · #4 (**permalink**) 10-22-2006

Found the product.. wonder what it takes to fit it on...

http://www.edsonmarine.com/newproduc...ne_control.htm

http://www.edsonmarine.com/sailcatalog/site/0042.html

PBzeer · #5 (**permalink**) 10-22-2006

From what I learned of the product, you'd probably also have to buy a new pedestal guard as well, since the cables run through the inside of the guard.

sailingdog · #6 (**permalink**) 10-22-2006

I would call edson. They can probably tell you if you need to get new cables or if you can retrofit the existing cables in to the new control head. Most likely, you already have morse-type cables for your existing setup.