Finding the right side-mounted throttle control system for an outboard motor boosts precision, safety, and ease of operation on the water. This guide reviews five top options that fit common side-mount setups, explaining who each product is best for, notable benefits, and potential limitations. Ideal buyers include freshwater or saltwater boaters, enthusiasts upgrading OEM controls, and DIY installers seeking reliable, straightforward installation.
Summary of selected products:
| Product | Brand | Best For | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| VEVOR Boat Throttle Control, 5006180 | VEVOR | Evinrude Johnson engines; those needing neutral release and trim switch | Solid build; includes trim/tilt switch and robust housing |
| Dometic SeaStar Xtreme Control with Engine Cut Off Switch | SeaStar | Electronic switch option with cut-off safety | Side mount; chrome finish |
| Generic OMC BRP Concealed Side Mount Remote Control Shifter 5006561 | Generic | Post-1979 OMC/BRP installations; easy cable connections | Concealed design |
| FASWORX Boat Throttle Control Box 881170A15 | FASWORX | Mercury/Mariner compatibility; OEM-like feel | Includes 8-pin harness; front-mount trim wiring |
| Uflex B49 Two Lever Side Mount Control | uflex | Left or right side mounting; versatile cable compatibility | nylon fiberglass body; multiple connection kits |
VEVOR Boat Throttle Control, 5006180 Side-Mounted
This side-mounted remote control is designed for Evinrude Johnson outboards. The aluminum ADC2+ASA body with an ABS shell handle resists cracking, and a plastic button ensures reliable operation. It provides a robust platform for repeated push-pull maneuvers, making it suitable for frequent repositioning or close-quarters maneuvering. The front-end friction adjustment allows the operator to tailor throttle response for precise speed control. A cold-start air-oil ratio adjustment helps maintain operation in extreme temperatures.
Best for: Boaters with Evinrude Johnson motors seeking a durable control with adjustable friction and temperature resilience. Caution: As with all side-mount remotes, ensure mounting location offers clear lever travel to avoid interference with seating or storage.
Dometic SeaStar Xtreme Control with Engine Cut Off Switch
The SeaStar Xtreme control offers an electronic switch setup with a side-mount design and a chrome finish for a clean cockpit look. While the product details emphasize dimensions and weight, this option is well-suited for boats requiring an integrated engine cut-off feature for added safety. The side-mount format helps keep control cabling tidy and reachable during operation.
Best for: Boaters who want an electronic side-mount control with an engine cut-off safety feature. Caution: Check compatibility with your specific engine model and trim wiring before installation.
Generic OMC BRP Concealed Side Mount Remote Control Shifter 5006561
This concealed side-mount control is designed for post-1979 OMC/BRP systems, with straightforward cable connections for simple installation. It supports neutral warming, a start-up prevention feature, and other typical control functions, packaged in a design compatible with a range of BRP/OMC configurations.
Best for: Mariners using BRP/OMC early-generation setups who want a concealed profile with clear wiring. Caution: Verify that your rig uses the 5006561/745419342135 family of part numbers and the corresponding cables.
FASWORX Boat Throttle Control Box 881170A15
This Mercury/Mariner-compatible side-mount control mirrors OEM functionality with a dedicated 8-pin harness and a 15 ft lead. It supports Mercury-style trim wiring and front-mount trim wiring, making it a practical cross-reference for common Mercury/Quicksilver installations. The kit includes a traditional 8-pin connector for easy integration.
Best for: Mercury/Mariner owners seeking OEM-like behavior in a side-mount form factor. Caution: Ensure the harness length and pin arrangement fit your engine model to avoid wiring issues.
Uflex B49 Two Lever Side Mount Control
The Uflex B49 uses nylon fiberglass construction with anodized aluminum levers, offering left or right side mounting. It is designed to work with Ultraflex engine control cables and provides broad compatibility across multiple brands via various connection kits. This flexibility makes it a versatile choice for mixed-station builds or upgrades.
Best for: Boaters needing a adaptable side-mount option that supports multiple engine brands through different connection kits. Caution: Confirm the exact cable kit compatibility for your engine before purchase.
Buying Guide
- Engine compatibility: Check the exact engine make, model, and year to ensure the throttle box supports your controls. Some units are pitched specifically for Evinrude/Johnson, Mercury/Quicksilver, BRP/OMC, or generic installations.
- Harness length and connectors: Verify that the included harness length fits your cockpit layout and that the connector type matches your engine cables (8-pin, 14-pin, 15 ft, etc.).
- Trim and auxiliary features: Decide if you need a built-in trim switch, power tilt/trim, engine cut-off, or a fast idle function, as these features affect safety and handling.
- Mounting versatility: Consider whether you want left or right side mounting, concealed panels, or chrome finish for aesthetics and accessibility.
- Durability and materials: Look for corrosion-resistant housings (aluminum, ABS) and robust levers to withstand marine conditions and repeated operation.
- Ease of installation: Favor units with straightforward wiring and documented installation steps to minimize downtime and errors.
FAQ
- What is side-mount throttle control best for? It provides easy reach and precise throttle manipulation in cockpits with limited forward space, often used on center consoles and runabouts.
- Do these controls work with multiple brands? Some are designed for specific brands (Mercury, BRP/OMC, Evinrude/Johnson) while others are more universal. Always verify model compatibility with your engine.
- Is a trim switch necessary on a throttle control? Not strictly, but a trim switch integrated into the lever enhances convenience, allowing engine position adjustments without reaching for a separate control.
- What safety feature should I look for? Engine cut-off switches and neutral warm-up/start features can improve safety by preventing unintended engine operation during startup or in emergencies.
- Can I install these myself? Many are designed for DIY installation, but confirm cable compatibility and mounting hardware. Hire a professional if wiring or hull modification is required.
- What maintenance is required? Regularly inspect cables, bushings, and connectors for wear, corrosion, and looseness. Clean and lubricate moving parts as needed.