As the Fall months creep into our calendars, boat owners in cooler climates acknowledge, with sadness, that it’s time to put the boat away.
Outside Storage?
It’s a thought and an option but consider that you may be threatened by snow build up, tornadoes or hurricanes. The success of storing your boat outside depends on how well your boat is protected from the conditions outdoors.
Rinse/Flush
Rinsing the outside of your boat and trailer thoroughly with fresh water will remove excess salt. Pay particular attention to your trailer’s leaf springs, wheel hubs and brakes that are constantly submerged during launching and retrieval of your boat.
Flush your engine's cooling system with fresh water in line with your engine manufacturer’s salt removal recommendations. This will minimize corrosion and overheating issues come spring.
Drain your boat of all water – bilge, head, sink lines, water tanks, sea-cocks, and pipes. If you are in an area with extended periods of freezing, put antifreeze in the low parts if there is still some water present.
Salt
Watch out for salt. Buy a good salt remover to minimize corrosion.
Add fuel stabilizer to top off your fuel tanks. Here is one recommended by CLR Marine.
Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer & Performance Improver - 32oz *Case of 4*
STA-BIL Diesel Formula Fuel Stabilizer is a diesel additive that keeps fuel fresh for quick, easy starts and maximized for engine performance. Designed for use with all diesel engines, and all diesel fuels, Sta-Bil Fuel Stabilizer Diesel formula prevents sludge and sediment formation, cleans and lubricates fuel injectors to improve performance and helps remove water. It is safe to use and recommended for use at every fill up, with the 32 ounce bottle treating up to 320 gallons of fuel.
Batteries
Remove the batteries from your boat and store in your garage or basement.
Batteries should be connected to a battery charger that will give them a good charge and one that w automatically switches to a float/trickle charge to keep your batteries topped up. Match your charger to the type of battery you are charging. Using a charger manufactured for lead acid batteries to charge an AGM (absorbent glass mat) battery will cause damage to the battery.
If you choose to keep your batteries in the boat, connect a solar trickle charger. These chargers will keep your batteries topped off without the hassle of removing heavy batteries from your boat.
Cleaning
Clean the exterior with the proper fiber glass or wood cleaner needed for your boat. Bright work can be cleaned by removing the wood or cleaning it as it is - installed. Be careful to not get the wood cleaner onto the deck surfaces. The exterior should be dried with a chamois cloth. Vinyl seat cushions and backs should be cleaned with vinyl cleaner. Hard surfaces inside the vessel can be wiped with all purpose cleaners. End your cleaning with a coat of wax to the exterior and polish. Don’t forget the bottom paint.
Before you store, spend the time to give your boat a thorough cleaning. CLR Marine has many products by trusted brands such as Powerhouse, Davis Instruments, Jabsco, Shurhold, and Swobbit, to help winterize and clean. You will be grateful in the spring during launch time that your boat is already clean as the new boating season begins.
Cover Up
If you store outside in your yard, driveway, or a boat yard, a boat cover is a must to prevent damage from winter conditions. Leaving your boat in the water is not recommended. The boat is exposed to rough weather, and has a greater possibility of sinking if you aren’t monitoring it often.
https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/boat-outfitting/winter-covers.html
and
https://www.clrmarine.com/462m4/winterizing.html
Circle May 21, 2022, on your calendar. The date is almost ten days before Memorial Day, next year when most harbors open for the season. Start your prep work, tune-ups, sanding, and painting to get out on the water and a great boating season. In the meantime, during the cold winter months, cozy up to the fire and read your boating manuals, new safety regulations and weather information.
Fair winds and smooth sailing.
To obtain more information about the products and services mentioned in this article, please get in touch with CLR Marine https://www.clrmarine.com/.
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Award-winning author Cheryl Kuba has been at the helm for more than 30 years sailing the Great Lakes, with side trips to the British Virgin Islands and St. Maarten.
She has served as past- Commodore of Great Lakes Fleet 21 -Chicago region. 3happycampers.com
©Copyright Cheryl Kuba, 3happycampers.com, 2021.
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Boat Outfitting Equipment and Supplies
When it comes time for outfitting your boat, you can get all your boating supplies and boating accessories from us. You will never need to go anywhere else for your boat outfitting, because we have all the boat supplies you need. If you're looking for anchors/chain/rope, anodes, antifouling systems or boarding ladders, we have you covered. We can also offer you a selection of bottom paint and bow thrusters to choose from. You may also want cleaning supplies that offer deck/galley options so you can get your boat sparkling and ready to enjoy. We also have display mounts and docking accessories to complete your outfitting needs.
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Steering Trim Control Unit
Trim Switches on the Steering Wheel Improve Safety and Performance.
This steering trim control unit is molded of black plastic with raised white letters to not only enhance boat appearance but also provide the ultimate in control of any high performance boat. The steering trim control unit mounts easily to steering wheel spokes to place engine trim control at your finger tips for maximum safety and ease of operation. The weather proof, rubber booted, push button switches combined with a black urethane coiled cord provide a unit which will provide trim control without removing hands from steering wheel.
Features:
Puts trim switches on steering wheel for convenience and safety
Allows driver to keep both hands on the steering wheel
Mounts easily on steering wheel spokes
Weatherproof rubber booted switches
Rugged urethane coiled cord
Can be used for trim control or jack plate control
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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108.10 | |
P4 Color Pack - Fluxgate Compass & Rotary Feedback for Commercial Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional
Features:
IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability
ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds
AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration
WORK Mode suitable for Towboats and Workboats
NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface
Configurable for Fishing, Offshore Vessels, Workboats, Towboats and Yachts
PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response
Multi-Station capability with security station lock
SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display
NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering
ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind
Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems
Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional)
Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional)
Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more
Standard Mounting bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional
IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4
RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity
Additional Features:
9 level backlit LCD display
Colour head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions
Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats
Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes
Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent
Multi-station capability with security station lock
Automatic trim
Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings
PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance
Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations
Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems
Specifications:
Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC
Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps
Network: NMEA 2000
Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs
NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec)
Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass
Course Resolution: 1°
Course Detection: 0.5°
Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display
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4100.80 | |
P4 Color Pack - Magenetic Compass Sensor & Rotary Feedback for Commercial Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional
Features:
IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability
ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds
AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration
WORK Mode suitable for Towboats and Workboats
NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface
Configurable for Fishing, Offshore Vessels, Workboats, Towboats and Yachts
PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response
Multi-Station capability with security station lock
SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display
NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering
ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind
Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems
Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional)
Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional)
Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more
Standard Mounting bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional
IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4
RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity
Additional Features:
9 level backlit LCD display
Colour head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions
Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats
Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes
Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent
Multi-station capability with security station lock
Automatic trim
Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings
PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance
Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations
Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems
Specifications:
Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC
Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps
Network: NMEA 2000
Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs
NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec)
Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass
Course Resolution: 1°
Course Detection: 0.5°
Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display
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3924.04 | |
ComNav P4 Color Pack - Fluxgate Compass & Rotary Feedback f/Yacht Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional P4 Color Pack - Fluxgate Compass & Rotary Feedback f/Yacht Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional
Features:
IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability
ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds
AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration
NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface
Configurable for all types of recreational mid-size to large pleasure craft
PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response
Multi-Station capability with security station lock
SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display
NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering
ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind
Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems
Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional)
Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional)
Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more
Standard Mounting Bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional
IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4
RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity
Additional Features:
9 level backlit LCD display
Color head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions
Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats
Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes
Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent
Multi-station capability with security station lock
Automatic trim
Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings
PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance
Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations
Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems
Specifications:
Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC
Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps
Network: NMEA 2000
Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs
NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec)
Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass
Course Resolution: 1°
Course Detection: 0.5°
Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display
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4100.80 | |
P4 Color Pack - Fluxgate Compass & Rotary Feedback f/Yacht Boats *Deck Mount Bracket Optional
Features:
IST – Intelligent Steering Technology provides superior vessel steering capability
ADAPTIVE steering for sea conditions and varying vessel speeds
AUTO-SETUP – allows auto-drive detection, rudder response time, compass detection and calibration
NMEA 2000, ETHERNET, and NMEA 0183 interface
Configurable for all types of recreational mid-size to large pleasure craft
PRC- Proportional Rate Control feature provides gentle smooth response
Multi-Station capability with security station lock
SUNLIGHT viewable LED backlit 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 display
NAV Mode provide adaptive precise track steering
ALC – Automatic Leeway Compensation for Drift, Tide & Wind
Fully compatible with onboard instruments and steering systems
Z-Drive interface allows 360 ͦAzimuth drive interface using +/- 10 Volts /4-20 milliamps analog signal (optional)
Auto Thrust-assist for Dead-ahead slow or station keeping (optional)
Multi-Language capability: English, Chinese, French, German, Norwegian, Spanish, Italian, Icelandic, and more
Standard Mounting Bracket – Flush Mount, Swivel mount bracket is optional
IP67 Waterproof – Control Head, TS4, NF4 and WS4
RoHS & CE compliance for EMI and RFI immunity
Additional Features:
9 level backlit LCD display
Color head gives you Red Night Vision mode for comfortable viewing in all conditions
Pre-defined parameter sets for full or semi-displacement,planning hulls, stern drives and sailboats
Multiple steering capability for Fast, Slow and Work modes
Simple to use course knob with mechanical detent
Multi-station capability with security station lock
Automatic trim
Adjustable yaw, turn rate and rudder settings
PORT and STBD dodge buttons for collision avoidance
Output for optional analog rudder angle indicator, up to 4 stations
Fully compatible with onboard NMEA instruments and most steering systems
Specifications:
Operating Voltage: 10 to 30 VDC
Power Consumption: Average 0.5 Amps, 3 Amps Peak (Lower consumption capability with low backlight setting) Drive Output: 20 Amps
Network: NMEA 2000
Navigational Interface: NMEA 0183 inputs
NMEA 0183 Output: Heading (10x per sec), Autopilot Status (1x per sec)
Heading Reference: Fluxgate, Magnetic Compass, NMEA Compass or Heading Sensor GNSS compass
Course Resolution: 1°
Course Detection: 0.5°
Control Head: Sunlight viewable high contrast LCD is 5.7” TFT LCD 640 x 480 VGA high resolution display
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3924.04 | |
UC168-1 Hydraulic Steering Cylinder
Inboard boat hydraulic steering cylinder. Balanced cylinder, an equal number of turns lock-to-lock.
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493.94 | |
Course Computer Unit (CCU) - Reactor™ 40 Steer-by-wire
Garmin's CCU is the brain of the Reactor 40 autopilot system, containing sensory equipment used to determine heading and rate of turn. Connect the CCU to your boat's steering system and the NMEA 2000® network to communicate with your GHC™ 20 and optional NMEA 2000-compatible devices.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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2339.99 | |
Course Computer Unit (CCU) - Reactor™ 40 Steer-by-wire f/Viking® VIPER™
Garmin's CCU is the brain of the Reactor 40 autopilot system, containing sensory equipment used to determine heading and rate of turn. Connect the CCU to your boat's steering system and the NMEA 2000® network to communicate with your GHC™ 20 and optional NMEA 2000-compatible devices.
WARNING: This product can expose you to chemicals which are known to the State of California to cause cancer, birth defects or other reproductive harm. For more information go to P65Warnings.ca.gov.
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6709.99 | |
Towing & Trailering
Trailering can add new dimensions to the sense of freedom that comes with boating, and that's one of the reasons it's so popular. With a trailerable boat, you're free to boat on just about any lake, river, bay or inlet. Trailering is great way to explore different waterways in your state or region it's also the most affordable way to store your boat. The tips below can help you learn all about towing and boat trailer maintenance.
Look for Certified Trailers NMMA Trailer Logo. Highly trained third-party inspectors visit the manufacturer each year and physically inspect boat trailer models, ensuring compliance to all certification requirements.
Trailering your boat can add new dimensions to the freedom that comes with boating. If you've never trailered a boat, there are several things you need to consider. First, determine the towing capacity of your car, truck or SUV. You can find this information in the owner's manual of your vehicle. Usually compact family sedans are not suitable for towing more than a small, aluminum fishing boat or PWC with a properly mounted hitch and lighting plug . Most standard pick-up trucks and SUVs can trailer boats up to 25 feet, but always consult your vehicle owner's manual for limitations.
The owner's manual of your boat will list the "dry” weight of the boat, less fuel and gear. When you're assessing your vehicle's towing capacity, be sure to add several hundred pounds to the dry weight to account for gear, gas and accessories.
As the weight, length and beam (width) of a given boat increase, so does the muscle power needed to launch and retrieve it. A small boat may be easy for one person to handle at the ramp, but larger boats (generally those more than 25 feet) may require additional hands. Don't be afraid to ask for help at the ramp if you need it, trailer boaters are always happy to help.
STOP Invasive Species
By following these guidelines:
Never release live or dead bait or bait packaging into a water body, or release aquatic animals from one water body into another.
Share live bait with other anglers or empty your bait bucket in the trash before leaving the area.
Don't drive the boat through aquatic plants; avoid chopping vegetation with outboard motor propeller
Once on dry land, drain water out of every conceivable place that can hold water: Follow factory guidelines for eliminating water from engines. All engines hold water, but jet drives on personal watercraft and other boats can hold extra water.
Remove the stern drain plug and put boat on an incline so that all the water drains out.
Drain livewells, bilge and transom wells.
Empty water out of kayaks, canoes, rafts, etc.
Remove any visible plant, fish, and animal or fragment as well as mud, which can house them. Check trailer, in and around the boat itself, the anchor, props or steering nozzle (PWCs and jet boats), lines, fenders, paddles
Rinse your boat, trailer, and equipment. Clean and dry anything that came in contact with the water. It is best to use high-pressure, hot (104°F) water or a solution of one percent table salt and water. A garden hose will work if no other option is available.
Air-dry your boat and equipment for as long as possible—at least five days is optimal.
Specials Closeouts Remanufactured Rebates
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ROTECH™ STEERING SYSTEM
ROTECH - X09
T71FC - helm
X34 - 90° bezel
M66 - 9' steering cable
UFLEX ROTARY STEERING SYSTEMS PACKAGED IN A BOX:
A convenient kit form, especially suitable as replacement steering, that includes helm, bezel and cable.
FEATURES AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Fast connect, simple installation
All stainless steel cable output ends
Corrosion resistant materials
Particulary suitable where clearance is limited
Standard 3/4" tapered shaft
Lock-to-lock steering wheel turns: approx. 3,8
Stroke: 9" (228 mm)
Maximum allowable steering wheel diameter: 16" (406 mm)
Minimum steering cable bend radius: 7.9" (200 mm)
Minimal feedback
Compact for mounting
T71FC steering system is not to be used on boats quipped with engines that exceed the maximum horsepower rating of the boat
For boats faster than 50 mph the twin cable steering system T72FC is recommended
Exceeds EN 28848 safety standards
Exceeds ABYC P17 safety standards
**The wheel is not included
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177.10 | |
ROTECH™ STEERING SYSTEM
ROTECH - X13
T71FC - helm
X34 - 90° bezel
M66 - 13' steering cable
UFLEX ROTARY STEERING SYSTEMS PACKAGED IN A BOX:
A convenient kit form, especially suitable as replacement steering, that includes helm, bezel and cable.
FEATURES AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Fast connect, simple installation
All stainless steel cable output ends
Corrosion resistant materials
Particulary suitable where clearance is limited
Standard 3/4" tapered shaft
Lock-to-lock steering wheel turns: approx. 3,8
Stroke: 9" (228 mm)
Maximum allowable steering wheel diameter: 16" (406 mm)
Minimum steering cable bend radius: 7.9" (200 mm)
Minimal feedback
Compact for mounting
T71FC steering system is not to be used on boats quipped with engines that exceed the maximum horsepower rating of the boat
For boats faster than 50 mph the twin cable steering system T72FC is recommended
Exceeds EN 28848 safety standards
Exceeds ABYC P17 safety standards
**The wheel is not included
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177.10 | |
ROTECH™ STEERING SYSTEM
ROTECH - X14
T71FC - helm
X34 - 90° bezel
M66 - 14' steering cable
UFLEX ROTARY STEERING SYSTEMS PACKAGED IN A BOX:
A convenient kit form, especially suitable as replacement steering, that includes helm, bezel and cable.
FEATURES AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Fast connect, simple installation
All stainless steel cable output ends
Corrosion resistant materials
Particulary suitable where clearance is limited
Standard 3/4" tapered shaft
Lock-to-lock steering wheel turns: approx. 3,8
Stroke: 9" (228 mm)
Maximum allowable steering wheel diameter: 16" (406 mm)
Minimum steering cable bend radius: 7.9" (200 mm)
Minimal feedback
Compact for mounting
T71FC steering system is not to be used on boats quipped with engines that exceed the maximum horsepower rating of the boat
For boats faster than 50 mph the twin cable steering system T72FC is recommended
Exceeds EN 28848 safety standards
Exceeds ABYC P17 safety standards
**The wheel is not included
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177.10 | |
ROTECH™ STEERING SYSTEM
ROTECH - X16
T71FC - helm
X34 - 90° bezel
M66 - 16' steering cable
UFLEX ROTARY STEERING SYSTEMS PACKAGED IN A BOX:
A convenient kit form, especially suitable as replacement steering, that includes helm, bezel and cable.
FEATURES AND TECHNICAL SPECIFICATIONS:
Fast connect, simple installation
All stainless steel cable output ends
Corrosion resistant materials
Particulary suitable where clearance is limited
Standard 3/4" tapered shaft
Lock-to-lock steering wheel turns: approx. 3,8
Stroke: 9" (228 mm)
Maximum allowable steering wheel diameter: 16" (406 mm)
Minimum steering cable bend radius: 7.9" (200 mm)
Minimal feedback
Compact for mounting
T71FC steering system is not to be used on boats quipped with engines that exceed the maximum horsepower rating of the boat
For boats faster than 50 mph the twin cable steering system T72FC is recommended
Exceeds EN 28848 safety standards
Exceeds ABYC P17 safety standards
**The wheel is not included
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177.10 | |