Mechanical Boat Control Cables

Boat Control Cables

Published on October 06, 2019 by Andy Garcia

Boat Engine Control Cables


Standard boat engine control cables are used in every vessel on the water that uses mechanical controls. Two cables are always required for shifting and throttle. Each cable is unique with being matched to the engine manufactures specification. All cables come in different lengths and sizes in the way they are manufactured. Each engine manufacture developed the cable connection ends to match there specific engine. It is important to note that some cables will require special connection kits for the correct install. See Connection Kits. The chart below is only for reference, so double check your old cables prior to purchasing new ones and check to make sure you do not require a connection kit for final install on your engine and controls.


Boat Engine Control Cable Cross Reference Chart


Mechanical Boat Control Cable Matrix

C2 Universal 3300 Series Engine Control Cable

C2 Stroke: 3.4” ( 87 mm) For use with inboard, sterndrive and outboard engines with appropriate accessories.

C2 Mechanical 3300 series Boat Control Cable


C4 BRP Evinrude Johnson Egine Control Cable

C4 Stroke: 3.1” (80 mm) For BRP® - Evinrude® (OMC®) engines manufactured before 1979.

C4 Mechanical Johnson Pre 1979 OMC 400 Series Boat Control Cable


C5 Mercury Mercruiser Engine Control Cable

C5 Stroke: 3.75” (95 mm) For Mercury® and Mercruiser® engines.

C5 Mechanical Mercury Mercruiser 600A  Series Boat Control Cable

C8 Universal 3300 Series Engine Control Cable

C8 Stroke: 3.4” ( 87 mm) For use with inboard, sterndrive and outboard engines, with appropriate connection kit

C8 Universal 3300 Series Mechanical Boat Engine Control Cable

C14 BRP Johnson 1979 Newer Engine Control Cable

C14 Stroke: 3” (75 mm) For BRP® - Evinrude® (OMC®) engines manufactured from 1979 to date.


C14 BRP Johnson 1979 Newer Mechanical Boat Engine Control Cable



C25 Volvo BRP Engine Control Cable

C25 Stroke: 3.1” (80 mm) For Volvo® engines using BRP® (OMC®) top mount controls.


C25 Volvo BRP Mechanical Boat Engine Control CableB14 Engine Stop Cable Push and Pull

B14 Stroke: 2.8” (70 mm) Designed for throttle, fuel shut-off and other applications. Supplied with L13 and L14 clamp and shim.

B14 Engine Stop Mechanical Push and Pull Cable