gear lever extension

[bamspm]

Does anyone have experience of fitting an extension lever to the gear lever on a 5hp outboard, in my case a Suzuki?
The outboard is mounted on a lifting bracket which means it is some distance outboard from the transom and with a stern locker the lever is difficult to reach. It is even more difficult to steer at the same time especially when approaching a tight berth.

I thought of trying to adapt a tiller extension but wondered if anyone had found a simpler solution

Brian M

 

[StanFolds]

I have a 9 inch length of 1 inch diameter plastic tube shoved over my gear lever, works a treat. I think Lake Sailer has some pictures of a simlar systen somewhere.
Stan

 

[Lakesailor]

I do indeed. A bit of alloy bar, a couple of s/s bolts and Bob's your Uncle. It changes the gearchange from clunky to smooth and controllable in one fell swoop. Much recommended.

 

[bamspm]

Both are great suggestions, thanks, but it is still a long stretch facing in the wrong direction at a time when steering is critical. Possibly the 1 inch tube with a 90 degree bend extending towards the cockpit would be an answer.

 

[Gunfleet]

You could fit remote controls.

 

[bamspm]

Nice thought thanks but possibly a little overkill on a 17 footer!

 

[Gunfleet]

I know, a foot bigger than a wayfarer... but it is a practical solution and you can get very neat remote controls. I have had a boat with a tiller, lazarette and outboard and know what the problem is. SOmetimes manouevering you feel as if an extending arm would help. But you'd never get shirts to fit from then on.

 

[Lakesailor]

The next part of my cunning plan which I never got around to (didn't need it) was to make a horizontal rod on a ball-joint or a simple clevis pin and supported at the pushpit end with a loop or bullseye fairlead or similar.

 

[bamspm]

Yes, just what I was hoping for, out with the tools. Thanks everyone, I knew I could rely on the forum to find me a solution