I'm currently looking at the 08 330s. Beautiful boats. They have dts.

 

Last 3 boats have had DTS. Once you have it you will never go back to mechanical linkages. It is smooth, precise, and repeatable. Never had a single issue with it - proven technology.

 

I have DTS in my boat and love it, I have had the boat for 5 years now with no problems.
It did take me a little while to learn the throttles as they are very sensitive, Meaning there is no resistance from cables.
With the DTS throttles you can sync the motors or use one throttle with a push of one button.

 

Well, if the computer ever takes a fit your dead in the water, atleast with cables you got a chance. Anything mechanically connected can be moved by hand,
electrically connected,????????? Dont know if thats even possible to do
And to control throttle setting there are friction adjustments you can make to hold rpm

 

Generally speaking, the DTS system has been reliable and has redundancies built in. There's a lot of them out there and few issues - it was originally a joint venture between Merc and SR and, if memory serves, first came on the scene around 2001. Sure, issues happen - issues happen with anything. The most common issue with DTS is a fault related to low battery voltage as, like most electronics, it is voltage sensitive. This typically results is a "limp home mode".

As far as the actual use goes... as mentioned, you'll never want a cable driven system again!

For what it's worth, from the engine-mounted control/motor to the drive is still cable driven and could, theoretically, be operated by hand.

You likely had a bad cable (or friction as mentioned) issue with your last boat. A cable driven system should be able to stay consistent over a long cruise.

 

With DTS the electrical signal goes to a solenoid on top of the motor from the solenoid to the drives is a cable.
If you know what you are doing you can remove the cable from the solenoid and manually shift the drives, Will require two people as you will be in the engine room and not be able to see were you are going. I would be able to get my boat back into my home port.

 

With DTS the electrical signal goes to a solenoid on top of the motor from the solenoid to the drives is a cable.
If you know what you are doing you can remove the cable from the solenoid and manually shift the drives

Unfortunately, that doesn't solve the digital throttle problem...on my (DTS) boat, the throttle body is a wholly self-contained electronic unit with no external linkage that could be manually manipulated. And, even if you could move the throttle, you'd still have to convince the ECM to adjust injectors/fuel volume accordingly (I don't think it relies solely on the TPS to do this).

That said, I wouldn't ever trade my DTS for non-DTS. I'll never go back. Highly recommended.

 

As said, super smooth shifting and it’s good as long as it’s good.

There are some posts on here about shift actuator failures, and I had an issue with the neutral switch 2 years ago.

http://www.clubsearay.com/index.php?threads/350-mag-dts-no-power-problem-and-resolution.85668/

 

Had it and loved it. No issues in five years. Current boat has Teleflex Digital throttle and shift. Can't imagine going back to cables.... love the "sync" button.

 

Thanks all, I appreciate the replies.

 

Did you ever move forward with the DTS conversion? Looking at the same for my boat.

 

We have the Volvo equivalent of DTS that also includes steering as well because of the pods. The result is a night and day difference. Things like system syncing of port and Starboard engine rpm and single lever control (engine & shift on one lever) become possible and that alone improves the ease of use. I have noticed the Admiral enjoys driving more now with the electronic controls than she ever did with our previous boats.

H

 

Hi
Just about to purchase a 340da 2002 approx has DTs
Want to remove motors and fit my hammerhead 300hp diesels take out v8 8.1 370hp
Is it possible to reuse this system on these 6.5l chevys or do I have to change back t o cable system ?
Quick reply please about to purchase tomoz

 

This is my second season with DTS and I give it a thumbs up. Nothing's perfect but I like the benefits of all the different modes.

 

As a follow-up, found my 280DA with DTS and I am really glad I waited for one so equipped. Super smooth shifts and throttle and NO worries with the dreaded IAC problem as DTS equipped motors don't have one (at least the 496's don't).

 

No idea. I suppose anything is possible but I'm pretty sure the DTS system is tied into the engine computer so I'm going to doubt it. Also, I couldn't see where the Diesel motors option (in the 280DA brochure) were equipped with DTS.
You might try to contact a John Mosetti at Boats Unlimited, He's on FB and is pretty much a guru for Mercruiser engine electronics/ECM/etc. Boats Unlimited | Marine Technician Service | Inspections (boatunlimited.com)

 

No idea. I suppose anything is possible but I'm pretty sure the DTS system is tied into the engine computer so I'm going to doubt it. Also, I couldn't see where the Diesel motors option (in the 280DA brochure) were equipped with DTS.
You might try to contact a John Mosetti at Boats Unlimited, He's on FB and is pretty much a guru for Mercruiser engine electronics/ECM/etc. Boats Unlimited | Marine Technician Service | Inspections (boatunlimited.com)

DTS definitely goes though the computer.