Let’s Talk About Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres
For years, I’ve been wrestling with the limitations of standard tiller controls on my small fishing boats. The jerky starts, the imprecise adjustments, and the sheer awkwardness of constantly reaching behind me to manage the motor were driving me nuts. Enter the Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres, a promise of smoother operation and enhanced control.
My fishing expeditions, especially on the crowded Columbia River during salmon season, demand responsiveness and precision. I was constantly searching for a solution that allowed fine-tuned speed adjustments while keeping my eyes on the water and my hands free for landing the big one. The Panther control, with its promise of water resistance, extended cable, and compatibility with my existing motors (Evinrude 9.8 and Mercury 9.9), seemed like the perfect answer.
The packaging was straightforward, nothing fancy, but the moment I held the control unit, I was struck by its solid feel. The dial had a reassuring weight, and the LCD display looked crisp and clear even in my dimly lit garage. The 25-foot cable felt heavy-duty, and the overall impression was one of robust build quality.
I considered simpler, cheaper throttle extensions, but they lacked the steering component and the fine-tuning capabilities I needed. The alternatives with similar functionality were either significantly more expensive or lacked the specific compatibility with my older outboards. I chose the Panther TM212DPRO because it seemed to strike the perfect balance between features, compatibility, and price.
My initial reaction was excitement mixed with a healthy dose of skepticism. Would this seemingly simple device truly transform my fishing experience, or would it end up as another gadget gathering dust in the garage? Only time and real-world testing would tell.
Real-World Testing: Putting Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres to the Test
First Use Experience
My first test run was on a windy day on the Willamette River, known for its tricky currents and unpredictable conditions. Installation was surprisingly simple, taking me about 30 minutes with basic tools. The instructions were clear and easy to follow, even for someone like me who’s more comfortable with a fishing rod than a wrench.
The Panther control immediately proved its worth in the challenging environment. The dial allowed me to make incredibly precise speed adjustments, effortlessly navigating the currents and maintaining the perfect trolling speed. The steering was smooth and responsive, giving me a level of control I’d never experienced with the standard tiller.
One minor surprise was the sensitivity of the throttle dial; a small adjustment made a noticeable difference in speed. It took a few minutes to find the sweet spot, but once I did, I was able to maintain a consistent and effective trolling speed.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of regular use, the Panther TM212DPRO has become an indispensable part of my fishing setup. It’s endured rain, splashing waves, and the occasional accidental drop without showing any signs of wear and tear. The cable remains flexible, and the control unit still feels solid and responsive.
The only maintenance I’ve performed is a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth after each use. The water-resistant design has held up perfectly, even after being exposed to saltwater spray. Compared to the constant fiddling and adjustments I had to make with the tiller, the Panther control has significantly improved my fishing experience.
The enhanced control and responsiveness have translated into more fish in the boat and less frustration on the water. It has definitely outperformed my expectations.
Breaking Down the Features of Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres
Specifications
The Panther TM212DPRO features a water-resistant dial throttle control with an LCD display. This allows for precise speed adjustments even in wet conditions, and the display provides clear visual feedback.
It also includes a momentary full-throttle burst function. This gives a quick surge of power for clearing weeds or quickly repositioning the boat.
The Panther TM212DPRO has an extra-long 25-foot cable. This allows for flexible placement within the boat.
It can be used hand-held or swivel mounted to the Panther AP-TM. This makes it adaptable to different boating setups.
The unit is compatible with Evinrude/Johnson 9.8 HP, 2013-present, and Mercury 8, 9.9HP, 2005-present (Mercury models with remote throttle shift only). This provides broad compatibility with common small outboards.
These specifications are crucial because they address the core issues of control, responsiveness, and convenience when operating a small boat. The water resistance, cable length, and compatibility features are especially important for anglers and boaters who demand reliability and adaptability in diverse conditions.
Performance & Functionality
The Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control excels at providing precise and effortless control over the boat’s speed and direction. The throttle dial is incredibly responsive, allowing for smooth transitions between speeds, and the steering is accurate and predictable. This level of control is invaluable when navigating tight spaces, trolling at specific speeds, or fighting strong currents.
One minor weakness is the sensitivity of the throttle; it takes a little practice to find the perfect setting, especially at low speeds. The lack of incremental markings on the dial could also be improved, but this can be easily overcome with experience. Overall, the Panther TM212DPRO meets and even exceeds expectations in terms of performance and functionality.
Design & Ergonomics
The Panther control unit is well-built, with a solid feel that inspires confidence. The materials are durable and seem capable of withstanding the rigors of regular use. The weight is balanced, making it comfortable to hold for extended periods, and the dial is easy to grip even with wet hands.
The design is user-friendly, with an intuitive layout and clear markings. There is a slight learning curve associated with the throttle sensitivity, but the overall experience is positive and straightforward.
Durability & Maintenance
Based on my experience so far, the Panther TM212DPRO appears to be built to last. The water-resistant design is a major plus, and the robust construction suggests it can handle the wear and tear of regular boating activities. Maintenance is minimal, requiring only a quick cleaning after each use.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Panther TM212DPRO comes with the necessary mounting hardware for attaching it to the boat. The primary customization option is the ability to mount it to the Panther AP-TM system, creating an integrated control setup. While the unit is compatible with a range of motors, aftermarket accessories are limited primarily to mounting and cable management solutions.
Pros and Cons of Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres
Pros
- Precise and Responsive Control: Offers exceptional throttle and steering accuracy, making boat handling much easier.
Cons
- Sensitivity: The throttle can be overly sensitive, requiring a learning curve.
Water-Resistant Design: Designed to withstand harsh marine environments, providing long-term durability.
Easy Installation: Simple and straightforward installation process, even for non-technical users.
Long Cable: The extra-long 25-foot cable provides flexibility in mounting and user positioning.
Compatibility: Works with a wide range of Evinrude and Mercury outboard motors.
Lack of Incremental Markings: The absence of markings on the throttle dial makes precise speed adjustments more challenging.
Who Should Buy Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres?
The Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control is perfect for anglers and boaters who demand precise control and responsiveness from their small outboard motors. It’s particularly well-suited for trolling, navigating tight spaces, and maneuvering in challenging conditions. Pro anglers and recreational fishermen who want to enhance their boat handling capabilities will find this control system invaluable.
This product is likely not ideal for boaters who primarily operate in open water with minimal maneuvering. Also, if your motor isn’t listed within the compatible models, research compatibility before purchasing.
A must-have accessory is a good cable management system to keep the 25-foot cable organized and out of the way. Consider a swivel mount for optimal positioning and ease of use.
Conclusion on Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres
The Panther TM212DPRO Pro Throttle & Steering Control Evinrude 9.8Hp, ’13 Pres/ Mercury 8 9.9Hp, ’05 Pres is a game-changer for small boat control. While the initial cost might seem high, the enhanced performance, reliability, and convenience justify the price.
I wholeheartedly recommend the Panther TM212DPRO to anyone seeking to improve their boating experience. Say goodbye to jerky starts and imprecise steering and hello to effortless control and enhanced enjoyment on the water. Invest in your boating experience today!