Remote Control for Alpha 1 Gen 2

Billyddot

Cadet
Joined
Jul 20, 2021
Messages
22
I'm starting to search for an upgraded remote control for my A1G2 4.3, standard one is very basic, has F N R, trim up and down. Are there any remote controls out there that offer a little more control options like a slow forward/rear stop that makes it easier to get in and out of docks? Also, if I just end up taking it off and making adjustments or replacing cables does anyone have any suggestions or tips to share before I dive into this? thx guys, this forum is a great help to me.
 

roffey

Commander
Joined
Nov 22, 2012
Messages
2,206
I have the same motor and drive for my boat, to be honest I have never heard of the set up your looking for. It will be interesting to see what replies you get.
 

Scott06

Admiral
Joined
Apr 20, 2014
Messages
6,570
I'm starting to search for an upgraded remote control for my A1G2 4.3, standard one is very basic, has F N R, trim up and down. Are there any remote controls out there that offer a little more control options like a slow forward/rear stop that makes it easier to get in and out of docks? Also, if I just end up taking it off and making adjustments or replacing cables does anyone have any suggestions or tips to share before I dive into this? thx guys, this forum is a great help to me.
Never seen anything for a single engine alpha application . I assume yiu are relatively new to boating? if goes into and out of gear cleanly ( for a dog clutch clean clunk going into gear) there really are no adjustments, id say just get some practice to get a feel for it.
 

briangcc

Commander
Joined
Jul 10, 2012
Messages
2,392
I think, and could be wrong here, that someone saw the joystick docking available on the larger Volvo powered boats - not sure if Merc offers this or not. Generally seen that as optional on the larger, $$$$$($) boats.

I'd have to agree...a bit of practice and finesse with your current controls will go a LONG ways to helping get in/out of docking situations.
 

Billyddot

Cadet
Joined
Jul 20, 2021
Messages
22
yep, new boater here, think I just need lots of practice. It goes into gear cleanly (I do get a nice clunk), the shifter could probably use some lube as it's not as smooth as I wish it was. When I move the lever I find myself with my hand at the base of the lever pressing the side of my hand against the side of the boat for a smoother throttle movement, rather than having my hand on the very top of the handle. Maybe I need to go to some boat showrooms and/or rent some boats so I can compare how smooth other remote control levers are.
 

JASinIL2006

Vice Admiral
Joined
Feb 10, 2012
Messages
5,683
It really is just a matter of practice. Learning to pop the boat into forward or reverse just far enough to enage the gears without hitting WOT just takes some time to learn.

Once you do get the hang of it, you should have no trouble maneuvering a 19' boat; being able to just pop into reverse for moment, or giving the boat just a brief nudge with a bit of forward gear, is largely a matter of developing some muscle memory with your throttle and the amount of resistance it has going out of neutral into gear.

Just keep at it, you'll get it!
 

poconojoe

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Sep 10, 2010
Messages
1,966
Yep, practice, practice.
And when docking, keep your speed down to as slow as possible. Coast in, if possible. All you need is tiny corrections to get it to go where you want.
Try to compensate for wind and current. Dont fight the wind and current. Use them to your advantage.
Dont feel pressured by anyone or any thing. Take your time.
There may be times where you might have to go around and try the approach again. It happens. Wind, currents etc...
 

briangcc

Commander
Joined
Jul 10, 2012
Messages
2,392
If you think your shifter is too stiff, have it serviced. You'd be amazed what that will do for you.

Sitting in a showroom with the boat out of the water, engine turned off, isn't going to tell you anything just moving the controls around.
 

roffey

Commander
Joined
Nov 22, 2012
Messages
2,206
if you can, bring the boat up to a buoy on the lake or river. See if you can dock it or bring it in as if you were going to. If you hit it just bobs out of the way. Make sure you are on the right side (red right returning, lol).
 
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