Molly Ayala
Pontoon boats are a fun and exciting way to experience the water. The steering console is an essential component of the pontoon boat, housing the gauges and steering assembly. It is important to understand the different types of steering systems available for pontoon boats, such as rotary cable steering or hydraulic steering. When replacing or repairing the steering console, it is necessary to consider the measurements of the pontoon boat to determine the required cable length. Additionally, accessing the electrical components of the steering console may involve removing gauges and disconnecting electrical fittings.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Steering system | Rotary cable style, cable and pulley, cable steering, hydraulic steering |
| Steering console | Holds gauges and steering assembly |
| Throttle | May or may not be on the console |
| Console features | Radio, speakers, GPS depth finder, tach, speedometer |
| Steering wheel | Sold separately |
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What You'll Learn
Replacing the steering system on a pontoon boat
If you are experiencing issues with your cable steering, it may be necessary to replace the cable. To do this, you will first need to check if the cable is the problem by loosening the nut at the motor end of the cable. Once the nut is loose, try to move the engine back and forth. If the engine moves, the cable is likely faulty and needs to be replaced. If the engine does not move, the issue may lie with the engine steering tube or the cable being stuck in the tilt tube.
When replacing the steering system on your pontoon boat, it is important to take accurate measurements to determine the cable length. You will need to measure from the center of the pontoon's console to the edge of the starboard side of the deck, as well as the deck length from the center of the console to the engine attachment point on the transom.
Rotary pontoon boat steering systems are a popular option for replacement as they cut installation time in half and occupy minimal space behind the dashboard. These systems can be used on pontoon boat engines up to 140HP and any pontoon boat with an inboard/outboard (I/O) engine.
For hydraulic steering, look for the presence of a hydraulic cylinder on the motor mount. The Seastar system is a common product that can be electrically assisted.
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Steering system measurements
When replacing the steering system on your pontoon boat, you will need to determine the cable length by taking the following measurements:
- Measure from the centre of your pontoon's console to the edge of the starboard side of your deck.
- Measure the length of your pontoon boat's deck from the centre of your console to the point where your engine is attached to the transom.
- Measure from the starboard edge of your deck to the centre of your transom.
To calculate the total length of the cable required, add the measurements from the three steps above, then add 12 inches. Finally, round up to the closest foot, and you have the length you need.
It is important to note that the type of steering system you choose will depend on the size of the engine and the weight of the boat. For instance, hydraulic steering is typically found on pontoons with a 115HP engine or greater and is standard on tritoons. It uses a pump at the helm, hydraulic fluid, hoses, and a steering cylinder at the engine. The hydraulic fluid moving back and forth makes it easy to manoeuvre the boat without much effort.
On the other hand, if you have a smaller engine, you should be prepared for the boat to steer like a car with no power steering. Additionally, if you have a large engine and a big floor plan, you might want to consider power-assist hydraulic steering, which will give you that automotive power steering feel.
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Sea-Doo Switch console controls
To shift to forward, tap the throttle lever on the right. Tap the left lever to shift back to neutral. To shift to reverse, pull and hold the left lever, and release it to shift back to neutral. The left lever also acts as the brake, with more braking force applied the more the lever is pulled.
The Sea-Doo Switch also features cruise control. To activate, press and hold the button on the right-hand keypad while squeezing the throttle lever once. Release the button, and you are now in Slow Speed Mode, adjustable from 3-9 miles per hour. To activate cruise control for higher speeds, simply use the throttle lever to accelerate to your desired speed and tap the same button. To deactivate either mode, pull the brake lever. The left-hand keypad also allows you to set your desired driving mode: Eco, Normal, and Sport.
The helm area also features switches for the bilge pump, bilge blower, horn, courtesy lights, and navigation lights. Additionally, there are controls for the audio system, as well as a keypad on each side of the handlebars to control the gauge display on the dash.
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Pontoon console electrical wiring
When wiring a pontoon console, it is crucial to follow the manufacturer's instructions and diagrams. In the case where a user has purchased a console and wiring harness from different manufacturers, as in the example provided in the iBoats forum, expert advice should be sought to ensure a correct connection.
The user in this example provided a detailed list of the wires coming out from the console, including their colours, and sought guidance on where each wire should connect. It is important to note that the wiring setup can vary depending on the type of ignition switch, engine, and other components.
In this case, the user's console wiring harness had wires of various colours, including grey, white, red, black, brown, purple, black/green stripe, blue, green/white, and more. Each of these wires needed to be connected correctly to the corresponding wires in the boat harness.
It is important to note that it is generally acceptable to lengthen wires or change connectors to meet specific needs, as long as the same size wire is used to maintain consistency and safety.
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Replacing the pontoon console
Firstly, it is important to understand the scope of the replacement. In the case of a 1990 Bass Buggy with a Johnson Side Mount Control, the console holds various components such as a radio, speakers, GPS depth finder, tachometer, speedometer, gauges, and the steering assembly. Before beginning the replacement process, ensure that you have a clear understanding of the specific components involved and their connections.
Next, gather the necessary tools and materials. You may need screwdrivers, wrenches, wire cutters, and other basic hand tools. Additionally, if you plan to reuse certain components, such as gauges, have the appropriate tools ready for their removal and installation.
Now, let's get started with the replacement:
- Disconnect the battery to ensure safety while working on the electrical system.
- Remove the steering assembly from the console. This step may take a significant amount of time, especially if you are doing it for the first time.
- Carefully detach the gauges from the console. Again, this step may vary in duration depending on the presence of quick disconnect electrical fittings.
- Disconnect the console from the deck and remove it from the boat. Take your time with this step to avoid accidental damage to the boat's structure.
- Prepare the new console by assembling any necessary components, such as gauges and steering assembly, ensuring that they are securely installed.
- Mount the new console to the deck, following the appropriate installation guidelines and ensuring a secure fit.
- Reconnect the battery and test all the components to ensure they are functioning correctly. Pay close attention to the steering and electrical connections.
It is important to note that the time required for this process may vary depending on your level of expertise and the specific boat model. In some cases, it may be more efficient to seek professional assistance, especially if you are unfamiliar with boat systems.
Additionally, keep in mind that replacing the console may impact the insurance and value of your pontoon boat. Consult with your insurance provider and gain a clear understanding of any necessary adjustments or declarations.
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