Mechanical.
The traditional boating steering system, using a cable to connect helm and steering wheel to the engine. Rack and rotary mechanisms. Both available with a “no-torque” option, which locks the wheel in position if you happen to remove your hands – for added safety and control.
Hydraulic.
The preferred system for larger boats with larger engines. Uses a series of valves, hoses and hydraulic fluid to move the boat in the desired direction. And make steering easier, more controlled and more comfortable for the pilot.
Different sizes and styles of hydraulic systems are available, based on the boat size, the size and number of engines, pilot preferences and speed and performance requirements - from fishing to cruising to high-speed racing.
Power Steering.
Relatively new to the marine market. Much like the power steering system in your car or truck. Uses hydraulic pumps and fluid to take the effort out of steering. True fingertip control. Better feel for the road, meet better feel for the water. Available with a range of larger Mercury® engines, including Verado® and a range of sterndrive engines.
Steer-By-Wire.
An advanced digital system based on the thinking behind the Axius® and Zeus® big-boat joystick platforms. Eliminates cables. Eliminates hydraulics. Simply a digital signal relayed, through wires, from helm to engine. Quick, super-responsive steering and serious control. A part of the SmartCraft® digital package.
Big Tiller
Perfect for backtrollers and others who prefer tiller control. Serious stuff for serious fishermen. Big Tillers are sized and configured to fit a broad range of Mercury engines. Three different kits to fit 40-60 hp FourStrokes, 75-115 hp FourStrokes and OptiMax®. Plus a power steering Big Tiller for bigger engines and more demanding applications.
Zeus Joystick Piloting for Pods, Axius Joystick Piloting for Sterndrives, and Joystick Piloting for Outboards
Docking. Now totally under control. Thanks to advanced joystick control. Mercury is the first and only engine manufacturer to offer joystick piloting on outboards, gas sterndrives, diesel sterndrives and pod systems.
Mercury Joystick Piloting systems totally take the stress out of one of the most stressful parts of boating. Side-to-side and diagonal moves plus 360 "on a dime" rotation to keep wind, waves, current (and stress) out the docking equation. All with a gentle nudge of the joystick. Maximum maneuverability. Minimum effort.
Axius and Axius Premier for MerCruiser® and Mercury Diesel applications, boats from 27 to 46 feet. Zeus for larger boats powered by pod drives.
Joystick Piloting for Outboards for dual, triple or quad installations of 250 and 300hp Verado outboards.
Joystick piloting systems are compatible with SmartCraft Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS), as well as electronic/hydraulic power steering to provide "all day" control and confidence -- cruising, docking, everything.