Outboard Guide: Mercury Digital Throttle & Shift vs Mechanical Controls

For decades, cable shift and throttle controls have been the standard in the boating industry. These features served countless boaters across Canada, from hobbyists cruising around Port Alberni to commercial applications navigating BC’s rugged coastal waters.

However, with continuous innovation and technological advancement in the marine field, boat owners face a key decision: should they stick with mechanical cables or upgrade to digital shift and throttle controls with brands like Mercury Marine?

Whether re-powering, upgrading, or buying a new boat engine, knowing the pros and cons of each system can help you make the right choice. In this blog, we will look at the crucial factors that will ease your job.

Digital Shift & Throttle VS. Mechanical Controls

Digital Controls

Mercury Marine’s Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) system replaces traditional mechanical cables with electronic signals, commonly known as “drive-by-wire.” These digital systems have become the standard on many mid-to-large horsepower outboards, including Mercury’s Verado series and FourStroke V6/V8 models. If you’re looking for advanced boat motors in Canada, you’ll find models with digital options across a wide range of categories at a reliable boat dealer.

DTS Experience

More Mercury outboard dealer locations are offering DTS-equipped vessels for many reasons. One vital reason is the feel. With digital controls, throttle and shifting become smoother, precise, and responsive. You will not need to deal with the clunky, stiff cable resistance.

With Mercury DTS, you get:

1. Micro-adjustments at trolling speed using fingertip buttons

2. Joystick piloting compatibility for multi-outboard applications and easy docking maneuvers

3. Zero-lag shifting with built-in protections to avoid gear grinding

4. Easy plug-and-play system while using a dual-station setup

For many anglers across Vancouver Island and coastal BC, Mercury Digital Throttle and Shift offers game-changing controls, especially in tight marinas or while trolling offshore to catch salmon & other species.

The Traditional Cable Case

Mechanical systems are simple, affordable, and widely maintainable. Cable-based controls have not been much wrong for years. Such a setup is still favorable among many boating enthusiasts upgrading their boats through an experienced marine mechanic team.

Cable-based control setup:

• Has a lower up-front investment compared to digital systems

• Works ideally for low-horsepower, single-engine boat applications

• Can be reused in most cases if you stick to the same outboard brand while upgrading

However, traditional mechanical systems do experience wear and tear over time. Misalignment, binding, and corrosion are some of the common problems. It demands regular boat maintenance from a professional to keep them running smoothly throughout the season.

Why DTS Can be the Right Move

You should consider digital controls if you are buying a new offshore fishing boat or repowering a current one with a newer Mercury outboard. In the current era, many boat motors 150HP or higher have an exclusive design for digital operation.

DTS makes sense in the cases where you are:

• Using dual engines or upgrading to joystick control

• Need fine RPM adjustments while fishing in tight spaces

• Adding more helm stations for the cockpit or towers

Newer boats in Port Alberni, BC, come with advanced navigation, marine electronics, and propulsion systems, making digital throttle and shift a certain step in the upgradation of control systems.

What to Consider while Updating

Switching from mechanical to digital systems generally happens during the purchase of a new vessel or the full repower of a current one. Compatibility with the engine is a must for shifting to DTS in an old outboard. Ask your boat dealership to check the support system before deciding.

Upgrading to Digital Controls means:

• New binnacle controls

• Replacing the ignition switch and control harness

• Dashboard updates for new gauges and digital screens

While upgrading to DTS requires up-front investment, its long-term benefits outweigh the initial cost by far.

Conclusion

We have seen numerous benefits of shifting to Digital Throttle & Shift from cable systems. Mechanical setup still remains a cost-effective, reliable, and proven performer. However, anglers prioritizing smooth operation, cutting-edge features, and long-term durability, Mercury’s DTS system is difficult to ignore.

It is not only about technology but also about how you use your boat, the water conditions, and your experience.

Whether buying a new boat setup or repowering, working with a trusted Vancouver Island boat dealer like Alberni Power & Marine results in the best price-to-performance ratios. Their experienced team assists customers across the Canadian region in making informed decisions and buying the right boat, engine, and electronics for personalized boating requirements.