Merc tiller handle

[skiffer]

Merc is the only manufacturer that incorporates the shifter in the tiller handle. Start in neutral, turn up the speed and it automatically shifts into gear. As far as I am aware, all other mfg's have a separate lever of some sort for the shifting. What are the advantages/disadvantages of the Merc system? Anyone have trouble with it (seems like a lot of stuff to be cramming into one tiller)? Thanks.

 

[NathanY]

Re: Merc tiller handle

One advantage is not have to do alot of reaching for the shifter when you are easing up to a dock or the shore.

 

[FlyBoyMark]

Re: Merc tiller handle

Had it on a Mercury 20 Hp for 10 years and never hada problem...beats the h e l l outa shift lever, never found any disadvantages except when I started to drive a buddies 9.9 hp jon-rude

 

[OldMercsRule]

Re: Merc tiller handle

If you are used to runnin' a Johnnyrude (as I am), the reverse can lead to potential problems, (hasn't happened to me yet), but it could.

Ya see if ya shift into reverse the dircection ta increase engine power is the same as a Jonnyrude in any gear (or a Merc in forward). If one were to hit it toooooo hard ya could take some water over the stearn. JR