Johnson control box

3464james

Cadet
Joined
Jul 9, 2022
Messages
7
Has anyone had experience with the Chinese made control boxes sold on Amazon and E Bay? A Johnson control box is $200.0-$300.0 whereas a Chinese model is $120.0 to $200.0, with all of the bells and whistles. I don't need the key and choke just the trim and the Chinese models look pretty good???
 

Nordin

Commander
Joined
Jun 12, 2010
Messages
2,555
Not knowing your control box but I would never go for a Chinese one.
Buy a used OEM box instead.
Most parts from China are crap.
 

Faztbullet

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 2, 2008
Messages
15,904
I have used almost a dozen of these and had no problems. Just make sure the trim system has relays. It will need an adapter harness to backfit older motors. If ya need just trim mount one of these enclosed switches on dash or steering wheel.
1729863651555.png
1729863608056.png
 

Crosbyman

Vice Admiral
Joined
Nov 5, 2006
Messages
5,442
Not knowing your control box but I would never go for a Chinese one.
Buy a used OEM box instead.
Most parts from China are crap.
on the subject of cheap, China can build the best of them but if "cost cutting specs" are what was agreed by contract and drives the import companies selling their stuff on this side of the pond then cheap is what we get.

Adding words like "US designed" or "Designed in Canada" to falsely reassure buyers is not a garantee of quality. Those marketing gimmicks (tags) are usually long gone when something breaks down and what is left is "Made in China "

Intended use determines the level of cheapness that can do a cost effective job. a $5 hammer will do for most households. Trades people and mecanics deserve better. My 2 China 5a/h batteries that fit my Craftsman drill, blower and weed eater work just fine and cost less that 1 Craftsman battery.
 
Last edited:

3464james

Cadet
Joined
Jul 9, 2022
Messages
7
I have used almost a dozen of these and had no problems. Just make sure the trim system has relays. It will need an adapter harness to backfit older motors. If ya need just trim mount one of these enclosed switches on
I have used almost a dozen of these and had no problems. Just make sure the trim system has relays. It will need an adapter harness to backfit older motors. If ya need just trim mount one of these enclosed switches on dash or steering wheel.
View attachment 402914
View attachment 402913

dash or steering wheel.
View attachment 402914
View attachment 402913

I have used almost a dozen of these and had no problems. Just make sure the trim system has relays. It will need an adapter harness to backfit older motors. If ya need just trim mount one of these enclosed switches on dash or steering wheel.
View attachment 402914
View attachment 402913
Can you recommend a brand, they all look alike with different names and prices? Where can I find a switch like you recommend? Thanks
 

matt167

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 27, 2012
Messages
4,151
I have one in my boat for Mercury. It’s all there and of a decent quality. I’ve read the trim switches are garbage. Mine doesn’t use or have trim switches
 

3464james

Cadet
Joined
Jul 9, 2022
Messages
7
I have one in my boat for Mercury. It’s all there and of a decent quality. I’ve read the trim switches are garbage. Mine doesn’t use or have trim switches
What brand are you using, They all look alike with different prices, what do you suggest?
 

matt167

Rear Admiral
Joined
Sep 27, 2012
Messages
4,151
What brand are you using, They all look alike with different prices, what do you suggest?
It was supposed to be a PSX or whatever brand but it came unbranded.

FWIW Vevor is probably the safest bet, they all come from the same factories but Vevor has customer support and an actual legit brand page. But they put their gaudy logo on everything
 

3464james

Cadet
Joined
Jul 9, 2022
Messages
7
It was supposed to be a PSX or whatever brand but it came unbranded.

FWIW Vevor is probably the safest bet, they all come from the same factories but Vevor has customer support and an actual legit brand page. But they put their gaudy logo on everything
Thanks, that was what I was leaning towards.
 
Top