Control Cables

Standard cables are suitable for most applications with short, simple cable routings. Mid-range cables are recommended for somewhat longer cable routings and heavier use than their standard counterparts. For difficult cable routings or
anywhere uncompromising performance is needed, use Premium (XTREME™) control cables.

OEM Replacement Type
These throttle/shift control cables are direct replacements for applications using engine makers’ controls with proprietary cable interfaces, such as: Evinrude®, Johnson®, Mariner®,  MerCruiser®, Mercury®, Force® and some Volvo® engines. Most other engine makers use universal type cables (10-32 UNF threaded ends) and connection kits.

Universal 3300/33C Series
Universal 30/33 series throttle/shift control cables are direct replacements for many boats using aftermarket controls or the following engine makers controls: Yamaha®, Honda®, Suzuki®, Tohatsu®, Volvo®, BMW®, Chrysler® and others. These are offered in five versions: one standard, two midrange and two premium (XTREME™). Universal 4300 Series Heavy duty universal type control cables are available in mid-range and XTREME™ versions only.

How to Measure Control Cable Length

For initial installations, measure the distances A and B along an unobstructed path to the throttle and/or gear connection. Add A and B together then round up to the next cable length. That is the recommended length. Cable bends for most cables should not be less than 150mm radius. Cable bends using Premium Cables can be as low as 100mm radius but it
should be noted that tight radii increase friction. Care should be taken to avoid unnecessary cable bends because each bend adds to a cable’s friction and lost motion.

For outboard applications it is necessary to add an additional 600mm loop at the front of the engine to allow unrestricted steering movement.
For replacement cable installations simply remove the cable from the boat and measure the cable as indicated to the right.

How to Choose the Right 3300/33C Series Cable

SeaStar Solutions® offers five models of universal 3300 series type cables, each suited to certain operating conditions and installation parameters. Below are key variables that affect how cables perform:

Backlash: the lost motion between the amount of movement put
in (input end of the cable) and the amount of movement which
occurs at the output end of the cable. Some motion is generally
lost in ‘take up’ between the inner wire (core) of the cable and the
outer casing (conduit). Backlash manifests itself as free play
(slop) felt at the control handle.

Efficiency: the percentage of input force that is transmitted
through the cable as output force. For example, if a 10-pound
force was exerted on the cable at its input end and resulted in
the cable exerting an 8-pound output force, the cable would be
80% efficient.

Breakaway: the ‘feel’ of the cable when put into motion; the
breakaway threshold is the force that must be applied to the
cables input end before something happens at the output end.
An example of excessive breakaway; a control that would have to
be moved to half-throttle before the engine responded.

Cable Routing: the shorter and straighter the cable routing, the
better the cable will perform. With increased length and bends,
cable efficiency is reduced, while breakaway and backlash rise.

Environment: generally, the more rugged the cable construction,
the longer the cable will last. In harsh environments such as
heavy salt and U.V. exposure, control cables with thicker conduits
and stainless steel fittings will generally outlast those with thinner
conduits and brass or steel fittings.Cable design, manufacturing tolerances, length and installation
care are additional factors to consider.

33 Series          Backlash   Break                      Long/Complex   Harsh
Cable Type                          Away/Efficiency  Routings               Environment
CC230               Good          Good                      Good                      Good
CC330               Better        Better                     Better                     Superior
CC332               Better        Better                     Better                     Superior
CCX633/632   Superior    Superior                Superior                Superior

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