SmartCraft® Digital Throttle & Shift (DTS) System

[HokiesFan]

Forgive me, for I have sinned. I bought another boat. I know that I swore in front of our membership that I'd never repeat all of those mistakes, but alias I'll need to enter a good 12 step program after I take delivery. :grin:

But to the question, does anyone have a newer Sea Ray that uses the SmartCraft Digital Throttle and Shift (DTS) System? I am wondering what the pros and cons are with the system and how much I'll have to re-learn docking without the benefit of the trusted split gears and throtles arrangement. Any ideas? :smt017



I'm Greg and I'm a SeaRayholic.

 

[fwebster]

You will probably get more an higher quality responses if you include the specifics on model and engines in your posts.

I've run the precurser system from Brunswick on Whalers with twin Verado outboards. Those who know me know I am a very reluctant early adopter of new technology on boats. I'm condervative and prefer trusting the health and safety of my familt to tried and proven technology and prefer cables to wires, old mechanical diesels to newer electronically controlled ones, etc. And, I don't trust Mercruiser because they had a bad habit of selling products before they are fully market ready. But, I really, really like the Merc drive by wire system. It is positive and immediate and as smooth as glass.

You will have to develop a feel for the throttle/gear control. The distance between neutral and in-gear isn't very far and there isn't much space in the in-gear position before you get into the throttle. The handling adjustment isn't hard, but you do need a feel for the boat and what is going on or you can over correct. A light and subtle touch is all that is needed......a lot different than having the positive detents for gear position with a dual lever control.