Answering the needs of boaters seeking reliable, side-mount throttle control, this guide highlights five compatible remote control boxes. These selections cater to different setups—from compact 15-foot harnesses to longer 20-foot runs—and emphasize ease of use, durability, and safety features. Ideal buyers include anglers upgrading Mercury/Merlin-style systems, sail and powerboat owners replacing OEM units, and installers balancing front- or side-mount configurations.
Overview of selected products:
| Product | Compatibility | Harness Length | Notable Feature |
|---|---|---|---|
| BOATCON Side Mount Remote Control Box GEN I 8Pin 881170A15 | Mercury Outboards | 15 ft | Pull to open, flameout rope |
| FASWORX 881170A15 Side Mount Gen I | Mercury/Mariner, 1993+ Force (Mercury style) | 15 ft | Direct OEM-replacement feel |
| Galloparts 881170A15 Side Mount Remote | Mercury/Mariner All Current Outboard | 15 ft | Built-in warning horn |
| BOATCON Side Mount Remote Control Box GEN I 8Pin 881170A20 | Mercury Outboard Engine | 20 ft | Pull to open, right handle |
| SEICETEC 14-Pin Side Mount Remote for Mercury 881170A13 | Mercury Outboards | 16.6 ft | Trim/tilt switch and safety lanyard |
BOATCON Side Mount Remote Control Box GEN I 8Pin 881170A15
Best for boaters who want a straightforward OEM-like replacement for Mercury engines. This 8-pin unit includes a power trim switch, a key, flameout rope, and a 15 ft harness, delivering familiar controls and reliable operation. Suitable for general side-mount installations on Mercury outboards that require immediate compatibility with the classic 8-pin wiring scheme.
- Best for: Mercury outboards needing a direct 8-pin replacement with standard 15 ft lead.
- Why selected: Keeps OEM-style wiring and features in a compact package with pull-throttle operation.
- Caution: Check cable routing to avoid interference with steering or engine trim components.
FASWORX 881170A15 Side Mount Gen I
This model serves as a direct OEM replacement for Mercury/Quicksilver 881170A15 with a Mercury-style 8-pin connector and a 15 ft lead. It’s best for installers seeking a wire-for-wire replacement that preserves original control behavior, including the power trim/tilt features and front-mount wiring compatibility.
- Best for: Mercury/Mariner systems needing a faithful OEM-replacement experience.
- Why selected: Cross-referenced to multiple Mercury part numbers, ensuring broad compatibility.
- Caution: May require professional installation for proper harness matching and safety wiring.
Galloparts 881170A15 Side Mount Remote
Best for Mercury/Mariner installations that benefit from a built-in warning horn and a robust 15 ft harness. The unit supports current Mercury/Mariner configurations and some Force models using Mercury-style cables, making it a flexible option for mixed-boat fleets.
- Best for: Boats requiring audible alerts and a standard 15 ft harness.
- Why selected: Includes integrated horn; broadly compatible with common Mercury setups.
- Caution: Verify the exact wiring harness match to avoid compatibility gaps with older Force models.
Boatcon Side Mount Remote Control Box GEN I 8Pin 881170A20
This version features a longer 20 ft harness with pull-to-open action and a right-hand handle. It’s best for larger boats or installations where steering and engine access are farther apart, reducing the need for intermediate extensions.
- Best for: Boats with wider helm layouts needing extended reach.
- Why selected: Longer harness provides flexible routing without sacrificing control feel.
- Caution: Longer harness may slightly increase installation complexity; ensure proper protection from the elements.
SEICETEC 14-Pin Side Mount 881170A13
Best for Mercury 881170A13 systems and 1993-Newer Force setups that require a 14-pin configuration with a built-in trim/tilt switch and safety lanyard. This unit focuses on durable aluminum construction and precise throttle operation, with added safety features for rough conditions.
- Best for: Mercury 14-pin or 881170A13-equipped rigs needing a sturdy, integrated control set.
- Why selected: Includes safety lanyard and trim/tilt integration for convenient control at the helm.
- Caution: 14-pin compatibility should be verified against the boat’s original harness before purchase.
Buying Guide
What to consider when choosing a side-mount remote control box for Mercury outboards:
- Compatibility: Verify the exact wiring format (8-pin vs 14-pin), harness length, and whether the unit supports power trim/tilt on your engine model.
- Harness length: Choose 15 ft for typical center helm setups; 20 ft for wider helm arrangements or long engine-to-helm distances.
- Safety features: Look for built-in lanyards or flameout mechanisms and a reliable kill switch to prevent accidents during operation.
- Durability: Assess housing material (die-cast aluminum is common) and corrosion resistance for marine environments.
- Installation considerations: Some units are direct OEM replacements; others may require matching cables or professional wiring for optimal performance.
- Controls and ergonomics: Ensure the handle-mounted trim switch and throttle lever provide the grip and friction you prefer during operation.
FAQ
- Q: Will these remotes work with all Mercury engines?
- A: Most listed units target specific Mercury/Mariner configurations; always confirm the exact 8-pin vs 14-pin requirement and harness length for your model.
- Q: Is a safety lanyard included?
- A: Some models include a lanyard as part of the safety features; verify in product details before purchasing.
- Q: What is the typical harness length best for a center helm?
- A: 15 ft is common for center helm installations; 20 ft works well for longer reaches or side gunnel layouts.
- Q: Do these remotes replace the original OEM part directly?
- A: Several listed items are designed as direct replacements; others provide compatibility with Mercury-style cables, so confirm part numbers and cross-reference if needed.
- Q: Can I install these myself?
- A: Basic electrical wiring and routing are feasible for many DIY installers, but professional installation is recommended for safety-critical throttle and kill-switch circuits.