Replace binnacle

[garybodie]

I've been lurking for a few years. Back in May I purchased an Albin 27 Fisherman model with Westerbeke 100 hp. Formerly, "Monkey Do" based in Annapolis. I'm based in Hampton, VA at HYC.

Thinking about replacing the standard double lever binnacle with a single lever binnacle. Any thoughts, recommendations or previous experience?

-Gary

[Norseman]

I've been lurking for a few years. Back in May I purchased an Albin 27 Fisherman model with Westerbeke 100 hp. Formerly, "Monkey Do" based in Annapolis. I'm based in Hampton, VA at HYC.

Thinking about replacing the standard double lever binnacle with a single lever binnacle. Any thoughts, recommendations or previous experience?

-Gary

Uh, binnacle is the compass housing.
You mean throttle/gear shifter?
I did that on my 28TE, replaced a 2 lever with a dual function single lever.
Look for my thread about repairs, improvements etc on the Albin 28TE,
pictures and comment on the conversion should be right there.

[TorreyWP]

I replaced my dual lever throttle/shift lever for a single lever style last year and couldn’t be happier. I like the clean look of it also my wife really likes the simplicity of using one lever.

Norseman, I think Gary is referring to a binnacle style shift lever, sometime referred to as top mount. Several companies make the kind required for our boats “single lever, dual action”. I opted for a used Morse shifter from eBay. I liked that it kept the proper vintage look to the helm. Beware of knock offs that do not offer the same smooth shifting action due to lack of nylon spacers if you are seeking a true Morse brand.

When I replaced my shifter, I also upgraded the throttle and shift cables to Teleflex Extreme series 33C cables. I believe what was in my boat was original and cable manufacturers have made many advances recently; it really helps keep that nice smooth feel with minimal feedback.

Good luck Gary!

[motthediesel]

It's certainly a matter of choice, but remember that when you go with a single lever control, you effectively reduce the annular movement of the throttle control to less than half of what you had with the dual lever setup. It may well make for more convenient maneuvering, but it also makes small changes in engine speed more difficult to accomplish -- your decision.

Tom

[DesertAlbin736]

Just replaced the throttle cable on our single lever setup. The shift cable was OK, but the throttle cable runs close by the exhaust manifold & melted through the outer plastic coating. Took a piece of rubber propane gas hose split down the middle to use as a shield where it's next to the exhaust.. Some good deals on cables from Wholesale Marine online out of Cinncinati, OH. $39 including shipping for a 13 foot TFXtreem 3300/33 Type Universal cable.

Ours is what I presume is OEM single lever control, with cables adapted to Yanmar engine. Works fine for me. There's a release button that disconnects the gear shift portion for adjusting idle speed without engaging gear. Makes me crazy when the Admiral shuts down the engine & leaves the stop handle pulled up & doesn't disengage the shift to leave it ready for the next start up.

DSCN3638.JPG

[Norseman]

. but it also makes small changes in engine speed more difficult to accomplish

Nah, not on my tub: Fingertip control within a few RPMs.
(Flowscan electronic tach)
Installed a brand new Morse single lever and 1 new cable, forgot which one, probably throttle.
Love the setup, never liked the dual lever controls, too much going on, especially on twin engine boats...