Console Layout

[Bigtalljv]

Hi,

So I have a console layout that I have hated from the day I got it. I finally have time and money to think about trying to do something to fix it. I dislike where the throttle control is placed I have a real hard time using it comfortably since I am just a hair over 2m tall.

I recently ordered a side flush mount control but I would need to completely rearrange the grab rails on the console to use it. I thought about grafting a box on the side of the console to house the flush mount but then the lever way too far off to the side, I mocked it up with some plywood and such.

I do all my driving from the standing position. I really want a throttle that is up higher and oriented in a more horizontal position but I don't see how I can do that. I could get a smaller steering wheel (I upgraded to hydraulic a few years ago) to gain some space, an inch (or 2.5cm) and would be willing to move the gauges but I keep running into the grab rails.

So anybody have any ideas?

Thanks,
Jason

[ecoXR24]

Are you going to replace the console?

We are just starting to produce a double console that may suit you. Its designed for narrower boats, rather than the wide beam RIBs. The throttle is centre-mount, so would be easier to reach from a standing position. Width of instrument facia is 870mm, but the base is narrower, to give more foot-room. There are some CAD images here: http://www.eco-marine.co.uk/consolesandseats.html

Sorry no photos yet - the first console will come out of the mould next week.

[John Kennett]

Do you offer free delivery?

[Ian M]

Originally Posted by Bigtalljv

Hi,

So I have a console layout that I have hated from the day I got it. I finally have time and money to think about trying to do something to fix it. I dislike where the throttle control is placed I have a real hard time using it comfortably since I am just a hair over 2m tall.

I recently ordered a side flush mount control but I would need to completely rearrange the grab rails on the console to use it. I thought about grafting a box on the side of the console to house the flush mount but then the lever way too far off to the side, I mocked it up with some plywood and such.

I do all my driving from the standing position. I really want a throttle that is up higher and oriented in a more horizontal position but I don't see how I can do that. I could get a smaller steering wheel (I upgraded to hydraulic a few years ago) to gain some space, an inch (or 2.5cm) and would be willing to move the gauges but I keep running into the grab rails.

So anybody have any ideas?

Thanks,
Jason

That console does look small, and if you are near 2 metres in length
Have you thought about getting rid completely and starting afresh with a new console?

[Bigtalljv]

yes, I have thought about replacing the console but I haven't had much luck finding info about them on the web. I just started talking to a big inflatable boat shop near me but they are still almost 4 hours away, I live in the sticks. Also I don't want to loose that much space to the console, the boat doesn't have that much space.

Oh, and I am guessing that console aren't the cheapest things around?

Jason

[ecoXR24]

Originally Posted by John Kennett

Do you offer free delivery?

We normally pack them in a crate for shipping, but purchasers are welcome to collect. They're a bit too big to send easily by courier and of course they have to be protected from damage. We'll do a discount for bulk purchases. If you're interested I'm sure we can sort something out - please send me a PM if you'd like more info.

[Bigtalljv]

Ok, this is how new I am to actually thinking about my boat. I was thinking that the double consoles are odd because you are off to the side and that seems like it would unbalance the boat. It just dawned on me that I rarely if ever am in the boat alone. And when I am I get to stand in the middle and my passenger has to hang awkwardly to the side. There might be something to a new console.

of course my big trip alone each year is the 26 miles to Catalina Island and back, the family takes the ferry.

Anybody have links to others who make consoles?

Jason

[Poly]

Originally Posted by ecoXR24

We normally pack them in a crate for shipping, but purchasers are welcome to collect. They're a bit too big to send easily by courier and of course they have to be protected from damage. We'll do a discount for bulk purchases. If you're interested I'm sure we can sort something out - please send me a PM if you'd like more info.

I think you might have missed the point - the OP is in the USA - shipping is going to be prohibitively expensive buying a new console from Europe (unless there was something amazing about it) when consoles are available in the states.

[havener]

Originally Posted by Polwart

I think you might have missed the point - the OP is in the USA - shipping is going to be prohibitively expensive buying a new console from Europe (unless there was something amazing about it) when consoles are available in the states.

But fortunately, being prohibitively expensive doesn't apply to ribnet trade membership

[havener]

duplicated

[Bigtalljv]

And we didn't buy RIBs to save money!

I appreciate the posts to even things I can't get or afford just for the ideas.

Jason