Do you repair marine shifter and throttle controls?

Yes – we repair single and dual-lever marine control systems, including mechanical and electronic shifters. We service stiff cables, broken detents, worn control boxes, and alignment issues to restore smooth gear shifting.

How do I know if my shifter cable needs replacement?

If you feel stiffness, delay in throttle response, difficulty shifting into gear, or the handle moves but nothing engages – it’s likely a stretched, corroded, or failing cable. We can diagnose it dockside.

Can you adjust or realign my shifting system on-site?

Absolutely. We adjust cable tension, lubricate control points, and realign the system to ensure proper gear engagement. Many shift issues can be resolved during a same-day service visit.

Do you service electronic (fly-by-wire) shifters?

We handle basic diagnostics and component replacement for electronic shift systems like Mercury DTS or Yamaha Helm Master. For advanced reprogramming, we coordinate with certified dealers as needed.

How much does it cost to repair or replace shifter cables?

Shifter cable replacements usually range from $300–$700 depending on length, access, and engine type. Control box repair or replacement may cost $400–$900. We provide exact pricing after inspection.

What causes stiff or jammed marine controls?

Corroded or kinked cables, dried-out lubrication, misaligned shift linkages, or worn control handles are the most common causes. Heat and salt exposure can accelerate wear. Regular service prevents failure.

Do repairs come with a warranty?

Yes – all shifter and control repairs include a 3–12 month labor warranty. Parts like new cables or control heads include manufacturer coverage. Full documentation is provided for your records.

Marine Control Box & Shift Cable Repair

SKU

2078

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$150.00

Docking is dangerous when you have to wrestle your shifter. We replace seized control cables and rebuild worn throttle boxes to restore that satisfying "click" into gear.

Details

Tactile Precision

Click Into Gear.
Every Single Time.

Stiff shifters aren't just annoying—they are a docking hazard. Whether it's a seized cable, a worn control box, or a misadjusted neutral safety switch, we restore the smooth, tactile confidence you need at the helm.

Seized Cable Replacement

The #1 cause of stiff shifting. Control cables have internal liners that degrade over time, binding the metal core. You cannot grease them; they must be replaced. We route high-efficiency, frictionless cables for a "like-new" feel.

Control Box Rebuild

If your lever feels sloppy or won't stay in neutral, the internal detents and cams are likely worn. We disassemble Mercury and Yamaha control boxes, replace worn bushings, and re-grease the mechanism.

Neutral Safety Switch

Engine won't crank unless you wiggle the shifter? Your Neutral Safety Switch is failing or misaligned. We adjust or replace these safety-critical sensors so your boat starts reliably every time.

The Repair Protocol.

Diagnose. Route. Adjust.

Isolation Test

We disconnect the cables at the engine. If the shifter becomes loose, the problem is the cables or the engine linkage. If it stays stiff, the problem is the control box.

Cable Routing

Replacing cables is an art. We use "messenger lines" to pull new Gen I or Gen II cables through tight gunwales and rigging tubes without damaging your boat's wiring.

Barrel Adjustment

Precision is key. We adjust the brass barrels at the engine end to ensure the transmission fully engages forward and reverse without grinding or hopping out of gear.

Friction Setting

We adjust the throttle friction screw on the control box so the lever stays where you put it while cruising, but moves easily when you need to slow down.

Smooth Operation.

Quality components make the difference.

Yamaha 704 Binnacle Service

New Teleflex Xtreme Cable

Cable Barrel Adjustment

We Service All Controls.

From vintage levers to modern binnacles.

Mercury / Quicksilver Commander 3000, Gen I & II

Yamaha 703 Side Mount, 704 Binnacle

Universal Teleflex / Seastar CH Series

Common Questions

Can you just grease my stiff cable?

No. Marine control cables are "sealed for life." If they are stiff, the internal plastic liner has swollen or the wire has rusted. Greasing them is impossible; they must be replaced.

Why does my boat grind going into gear?

This is often a "stretch" in the shift cable. The cable isn't pulling the gearbox lever far enough. A simple barrel adjustment at the engine usually fixes this immediately.