Bertram33 User Forum

I am not sure notchy is even a word, but the flybridge throttles are real hard to move smoothly. The lower controls work perfectly with very little resistance. Any ideas on how to fix this, as it is a pain to dial in my trolling speed with my current controls. Thanks, Mike C

I take it that you have two sets of throttle controls, I had that set up on the last boat with a tuna tower. You have to determine if you have a sticky component; it can be one or a combination of the 1. throttle itself, 2. cable (red jacket) or 3. the engine controls. The engine and throttle control can be cleaned and lubricated. If it is the cable it needs to be replaced. On my setup with the dual controls even with new cable and properly lubed controls, the upper was always "sticky: and required more force to move. This was due to the lower having 2 cables and the upper only 1. Disconect the upper controls at the lower control and see if it moves smoothly. If i does then you have the same condtion I had. Capt Rich Catch 22 1989 33 FBC

I have to agree with Rich because I struggled with the same problem on a very old 25 Bertram with a flybridge. I think most of my problem had to do with the control boxes just being old and worn out. Tried new cables but always had trouble shifting the gears. Scott 1987 B33 SF Dealer's Choice V

Thanks for the info guys. Anyone have an estimate of what it costs to have the throttle and tranny controls replaced? I would not do the work, as I have zero mechanical skills. Thanks, Mike

I'd try to clean the controls first. Depending on the mfg of the control, you may be able to replace bushings to make them smooth again. If not I beileve replacements are between $200 & $500. Replacement of the control is easier than the cable as it wouldn't need to be fished throught the boat, though there are adjustments to make sure WOT is reached and handle position is correct. I wouldn't think a straight control replacement would take more than 3hrs for one guy (shouldn't need two). I also don't think I'd rule out the cable to the upper control you can see it under the upper helm and where it attaches to the boat. What happened to mine is the casing split length wise where it made a sweeping bend. br, John D "Lady D" Bertram 35 Pasadena MD