How hard to replace throttle/shift sidemount

[brianct12]

Boat is a 1986 and has the original "concealed" sidemount control arm. * You know - *the kind which is just the throttle/shift arm ... *the choke and key switch is on the dash. * It's a little weather-beaten and I have access to a brand new unit for a good price. * How hard would it be to replace this ? * I havent looked to closely yet .... but it seems the unit would be hard to get at .... mounted behind the fiberglass liner. * Anyone ?* Thanks.

[chumbucket]

If there's no access, I'd cut a hole below it and when the job is complete, I'd install an inspection plate, fire ext pocket like LESTERUS did, or something else. As far as the control box replacement, that's an easy job.

[Skools Out]

take out the rod box and it is easier to reach but still not easy.

[macojoe]

On another V20 I saw that they drilled a 6 or 8" hole near control, then they added a deck plate and they now have access anytime they need.

[TheTinMan]

On another V20 I saw that they drilled a 6 or 8" hole near control, then they added a deck plate and they now have access anytime they need.


phester's got that on his too.

[chumbucket]

On another V20 I saw that they drilled a 6 or 8" hole near control, then they added a deck plate and they now have access anytime they need.

Isn't that what I already suggested?

[Mac_Attack]

I'd cut a 6 to 8" *only joking CB. *Does your boat have a drink holder near the helm. *If so *remove and see if you have access. *Remember we like pictures, it makes visualizing easy. *Billy Mac *;D

http://img.photobucket.com/albums/v130/Machockey/Helm2004.jpg

[brianct12]

Thanks all for the help.
Here is a photo - *not actually my boat but the set-up is exactly the same. * There is already an 8" access plate just behind the control. * *I dont see any screws on the outside that would secure the control ... and I wonder what kind of bracket might be behind the sidewall. * Wonder if whats back there can come thru the 8" hole - *or if it needs to be dragged back further to the rod box. *Obviously, I need to give this job a closer look. * But if anyone has already done this removal - * I'm all ears. *Thanks
http://i113.photobucket.com/albums/n201/BrianPB_2006/control1.jpg

[Mac_Attack]

Remove your speaker.

[macojoe]

I am not sure what holds it to the side?

But when you get it lose it will come right out were it is mounted, But after you disconect the cables.

They (cables) will need to be draged out the rear.

[Franco]

I had to replace mine.
Usually there are 3 or 4 screws that hold the shift/throttle to a mounting plate. Take those screws out and pull the shifter forward a little, disconnect the cables and wires and swap it over, It's a little tight but not too bad.

[brianct12]

Thanks Franco,
I think I can get my hands on a new control for $50 - so am gonna go for it.

[LESTERUS]

HEY BRIAN: BEFORE CUTTING ANYTHING CHECK INSIDE THE CABIN, THERE SHOULD BE A PIECE OF SOMETHING TO THE SIDE, COVERING THE TUNNEL IN THE SIDE OF THE BOAT, REMOVE IT AND CHECK IF YOU CAN REACH THE BACK OF THE CONTROL THAT WAY.

LESTERUS

[Blue_Runner]

Mine had a piece of plywood like Lesterus said. Between that and the 8" access hole you should have room to do it no problem.