Changing remote to tiller steer and throttle

[pfolmar]

Not sure if this should be here or in repair. How difficult is it to switch a remote operated engine to tiller. I have an oportunity to purchase a 1971 Johnson 40 HP with manual shift) for a good price. It is a remote unit and is on a boat with a console and steering wheels. It comes with all controls and cables except for the steering. My boat is a aluminum duck boat and has no console and I really want a tiller control. Is it difficult to convert this particular engine? Model number is 40 E 70. It has electric start, manual shift and seems to be a good deal. Thanks,

 

[NMplayer]

Re: Changing remote to tiller steer and throttle

I don't know if there is actually a real conversion.My guess is probably. I'll tell you how I converted one of those with just what you have now. I put it on a 18 ft deep V aluminum.<br /><br />I bought really short cables and mouted the controls next to where I sit in the back of the boat. Then I bolted a short length of 1 inch gas pipe to the motor. It works good.<br /><br />Just be sure that you mount that control box in such a way that your hand can always be on it while you're driving. Also make sure that the engine will still tilt with the pipe in place. If not, you'll have to rig a pivot point

 

[CATransplant]

Re: Changing remote to tiller steer and throttle

They made a tiller-handle version of that motor, so you can do the conversion. You can actually buy a new tiller handle assembly at ishopmarine.com or at your local dealer for about $150. It's part no. 0305409. However, there may be some other parts that must be replaced, as well. I'm just not familiar enough with that model to tell you.<br /><br />If you want to go used, watch eBay or check with an outboard wrecking yard like tcoutboard.com.<br /><br />Lots of tiller 40hp motors out there, so the used parts should be available, and the wrecking yard will know what you need. That's probably your best, and most economical, bet.