Using Side-mounted Shift and Throttle Controls on Center Console

Repair or modification of Boston Whaler boats, their engines, trailers, and gear
Jam9ed
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Joined: Tue Oct 13, 2026 1:33 pm

Using Side-mounted Shift and Throttle Controls on Center Console

Postby Jam9ed » Tue Oct 13, 2026 1:43 pm

[Imputed question that has replaced a survey question]

Q1: how can the mechanical cables and electrical harness for a side-mounted remote engine shift and throttle controls for a HONDA BF50 be used on a CENTER CONSOLE 15 to produce a "clean" appearance?

BACKSTORY
The present outboard engine remote shift and throttle controls on my CENTER CONSOLE 15 are top-mounted OMC brand. These top-mounted controls allow for a "clean" appearance because [the mechanical cables and electrical wiring harness are hidden from view as they are concealed by the console].

I am re-powering with a Honda BF50 that came with a side-mounted remote shift and throttle control which also integrates the ignition switch, the safety lanyard switch, and alarm or alert annunciator lamps. There is a top-mounting Honda-brand remote shift and throttle control available for the HONDA BF50, but when using that control there are four addition [control] panels required.

I am considering retaining and using the side-mount integrated control. I am unsure how to route the shift and throttle cables [and wiring harness].

[Moderator's note: removed a survey question related to use of side-mounted controls. Instead of a survey, just ask for advice.]

jimh
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Location: Michigan, Lower Peninsula
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Re: Classic 15 center console - side mount controls?

Postby jimh » Wed Oct 14, 2026 9:56 am

With a side-mounting remote shift and throttle control, I do not see a particularly good solution to concealment of the mechanical and electrical controls from view.

I believe on a CENTER CONSOLE 15 there is a rigging tunnel that runs down the center of the cockpit from the console to the transom area, so using the side-mounting remote shift and throttle controls may present a challenge in getting the several cables routed to the rigging tunnel and concealed from view.

If a clean appearance is an important element in your rigging, you may want to convert to using a top-mounting control.

jimh
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Location: Michigan, Lower Peninsula
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Re: Using Side-mounted Shift and Throttle Controls on Center Console

Postby jimh » Wed Oct 14, 2026 10:02 am

In the CETACEA photo collection at Page 21, you can see one solution for using a side-mounted remote engine shift and throttle control with a center console. Note that in this example, the control assembly allowed for mounting to a bulkhead on either side.

See

https://continuouswave.com/whaler/cetac ... age21.html

Jefecinco
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Joined: Fri Oct 09, 2015 6:35 pm
Location: Gulf Shores, AL

Re: Using Side-mounted Shift and Throttle Controls on Center Console

Postby Jefecinco » Wed Oct 14, 2026 10:46 am

On a small boat, such as your CENTER CONSOLE 15, interior space is limited , and comfortable fore and aft movement remains important, especially for anglers.

Our previous Dauntless 16 had a center console with top mounted controls. The were very conveniently located for the helmsman and allowed easy fore and aft movement. The boat was a pleasure to operate. I recommend adapting the new engine for a top mounted binnacle.
Butch