Adding a wired remote.

[Joel_CA]

I currently have a Kenwood KMR-555U headunit mounted in my cockpit and am about to add a KCA-RC55MR wired remote to the swim platform of my 1998 Searay Bowrider 210. The installation will require a 2"+ hole. I planned on installing it on the right side of the factory swim platform just after the "Signature" decal. My reasoning for this is that since the ladder is on the other side, there will be less traffic where it can be accidentally kicked/damaged and less traffic where it get excessively soaked by swimmers boarding the boat. The remote is IP7 rated, but i'd still prefer to keep it as dry as possible.
My wife wants me to install it on the same side, but further over to the right of the snap on cover pull handle - so that the remote is facing towards the left of the boat. She says it will prevent those that are sitting on the factory platform, but leaning on the remote and possibly damaging it. It will also prevent those that are sitting in front of it, from having to get up to turn around and face it, to make any adjustments. While this might make some sense, her location will prevent a swimmer from reaching up from the right side of the platform and actually making adjustments with it, since it will be facing away from their line of site. The aftermarket swim platform extends out too far for anyone to make adjustments while in the water from any other location but the right side.
We've decided to seek other opinions outside of our choice friends. Any input would be greatly appreciated.

J





Joel

 

[Joel_CA]

As an update, the Kenwood remote i ordered had very small micro cracks (7 total) all around the base of the unit (brand new out of the box!!!). I sent it back for exchange. Makes me very weary about the quality of this item, especially one that claims to have a high standard of water resistance. I'm very happy with the Kenwood head unit I'm using so I'm gonna give it another shot. The replacement wont arrive till next week.

Joel

 

[Joel_CA]

I finally got the replacement remote and installed it. I used a 2" carbide bit that is meant to drill holes through fiberglass showers and bathtubs. The installation went smoothly and the functionality can't be beat. No more will i have to worry about my soaking wet kids jumping into the boat just to change the radio station or music track when they can just do it while standing at the swim platform. I have a 3" rubber end cap on the way to throw over it when not in use or while in storage.

 

[Jay Bird]

Nice install, looks great. Thanks for sharing the pictures.

 

[Kingsfr]

You expressed concern about it getting wet if mounted in a particular location. What's going to happen when it rains?

 

[Joel_CA]

As I mentioned in my post, I'll have a 3.5 inch round rubber end cap to throw over it when it's not being used. The cap should fit tightly around it all the way to the base. This is not only to prevent moisture from reaching it, but to also prevent it from baking in direct sunlight for hours at a time. In the winter, I have a full mooring cover to go over the whole boat including the swim platform. I'm hoping this, plus it's high rating for water resistance is enough to keep it operating for years to come. The seller from Amazon gave me a replacement warranty for it as a result of my troubles from the first order.

J

 

[Hifirush]

That looks great! I’m looking at my options for new audio, transom control is one part.

 

[Joel_CA]

That looks great! I’m looking at my options for new audio, transom control is one part.

We've splashed several times this season already and absolutely LOVE having the ability to make adjustments without having to board the boat. An absolute favorite upgrade thus far. Also, its taken several direct splash hits and had held up wthout any leakage. Such a relief!

J