how to measure Mercury control cables

nagel88

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 25, 2005
Messages
44
This may seem a bit dumb, but it's a relevant question. I've replaced an old Evinrude with a 70hp Mercury and need to buy control cables. I have some cables that don't fit, and I'm using those to determine the correct length for new ones. I don't know if I should measure cables from tip to tip, or from anchor point to anchor point. I know someone out there has the answer. Thanks.
 

rickdb1boat

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 23, 2002
Messages
11,195
Re: how to measure Mercury control cables

End to end would be correct.... (Tip to Tip)
 

DHPMARINE

Captain
Joined
Dec 16, 2003
Messages
3,688
Re: how to measure Mercury control cables

Measure from the control to the back of the boat,and from there to the center of the motor.Add these figures together and add 3 feet.This gives you the cable lenghth.<br /><br />DHP
 

nagel88

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 25, 2005
Messages
44
Re: how to measure Mercury control cables

Ah, very good! I'll double check my measurement and get some ordered. Thanks!
 

nagel88

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 25, 2005
Messages
44
Re: how to measure Mercury control cables

Should I measure to the extreme back of the boat (transom)?
 

DHPMARINE

Captain
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Dec 16, 2003
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3,688
Re: how to measure Mercury control cables

Yep ! That's where the motor is. (grin)<br /><br />DHP
 

nagel88

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Jun 25, 2005
Messages
44
Re: how to measure Mercury control cables

Okey dokey. The dumbest question, they say, is the one that's not asked. More than that, it's easier to deal with cables that are too long than too short. Thanks all.
 

DHPMARINE

Captain
Joined
Dec 16, 2003
Messages
3,688
Re: how to measure Mercury control cables

Lots of people rig with shorter cables,but for long life and easy operating,this seems to work well.<br /><br />DHP
 
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