Let’s Dive into Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual
The Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual isn’t exactly the kind of gear that gets your adrenaline pumping like a new rifle or a high-tech GPS. However, for anyone who’s ever wrestled with installing shift and throttle controls on a boat, this seemingly simple piece of marine-grade plastic is a game-changer. Rig Rite promises durability and ease of modification, which, if true, could save a lot of headaches and wasted weekends.
My own need for this product arose from a recent repowering project on my old fishing boat. I needed a stable, reliable platform to mount the new dual-lever controls, and the existing setup was… less than ideal (read: a splintering piece of plywood held together with duct tape). The promise of easy modification was particularly appealing, as I knew I’d need to customize the board to fit my specific console layout.
Upon unboxing, the first thing I noticed was the weight and feel of the King StarBoard material. It felt solid and substantial, a definite upgrade from my previous makeshift solution. The smooth, clean surface gave an immediate impression of quality, and the precise dimensions confirmed that this was a professionally manufactured product.
I considered a few alternatives, including fabricating my own board from aluminum or using a generic plastic sheet. Ultimately, I chose the Rig Rite 960 because of its reputation for durability and the convenience of having a pre-cut, ready-to-modify board. The pre-cut dimensions are also important for maintaining consistent spacing.
My initial reaction was cautiously optimistic. It looked and felt like it would do the job, but the real test would be in the installation and long-term performance. Would it live up to the hype of being easy to work with, and would it withstand the harsh marine environment?
Real-World Testing: Putting Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual to the Test
First Use Experience
My first opportunity to put the Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual to the test came during the aforementioned repowering project. I installed it on the center console of my 21-foot fishing boat. The installation involved measuring, marking, cutting, and drilling to accommodate the specific footprint of my dual-lever controls and the existing console structure.
The King StarBoard proved surprisingly easy to work with, as promised. I used standard woodworking tools – a jigsaw, drill, and countersink bit – and the material cut cleanly and without splintering. I also appreciated that it didn’t produce the kind of irritating dust that you get when working with wood or fiberglass.
I encountered one minor challenge during the initial installation. The existing console had a slight curvature, which required me to shim the mounting board in a few places to ensure a perfectly level surface for the controls. It was easy to compensate for the console’s curvature.
Extended Use & Reliability
After several months of use, including numerous fishing trips in both freshwater and saltwater environments, the Rig Rite 960 has held up remarkably well. There are no signs of warping, cracking, or discoloration, even after prolonged exposure to sun and saltwater spray. The King StarBoard really proves its worth.
Cleaning is a breeze. A simple wipe-down with soap and water is all it takes to remove dirt, grime, and fish slime. It is easier than the old plywood board it replaced.
Compared to my previous cobbled-together setup, the Rig Rite 960 is a night-and-day improvement. It provides a solid, stable, and professional-looking platform for the shift and throttle controls. The smooth operation of the controls and the overall improved aesthetics of the console make it a worthwhile upgrade.
Breaking Down the Features of Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual
Specifications
The Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual boasts several key specifications that contribute to its performance and suitability for marine applications.
Material: King StarBoard Marine Grade Plastic. This high-density polyethylene material is known for its exceptional durability, resistance to UV degradation, and impermeability to water. It is a good choice for a marine environment.
Dimensions: 12 x 24 x 1/2 inches. This size provides ample space for mounting dual-lever shift and throttle controls. These dimensions give you room to work with.
Ease of Modification: The board is designed to be easily cut and drilled using standard woodworking tools, allowing for customization to fit specific control layouts and console designs. This is a major advantage.
These specifications are crucial for ensuring long-term reliability and ease of installation in a harsh marine environment. The King StarBoard construction guarantees resistance to the elements, while the generous size and ease of modification allow for a customized fit.
Performance & Functionality
The primary function of the Rig Rite 960 is to provide a stable and reliable mounting platform for shift and throttle controls, and in this regard, it excels. The rigid King StarBoard material eliminates any flex or vibration, ensuring smooth and precise control operation. It performs exactly as intended.
One of the board’s greatest strengths is its versatility. It can be easily adapted to accommodate a wide range of control types and console configurations. It would be difficult to find an application where it wouldn’t be suitable.
Design & Ergonomics
The simple, rectangular design of the Rig Rite 960 is both functional and aesthetically pleasing. The smooth, clean surface provides a professional-looking finish, and the neutral color blends well with most boat interiors. Its simplicity makes it easy to integrate.
The weight of the King StarBoard material contributes to its stability but doesn’t make it overly heavy or difficult to handle during installation. It provides confidence that it won’t move once in place.
Durability & Maintenance
The King StarBoard construction of the Rig Rite 960 ensures exceptional durability and longevity. It should last for many years.
Maintenance is minimal. A simple wash with soap and water is all that’s needed to keep it looking like new. The King StarBoard material is non-porous and resistant to stains and mildew.
Accessories and Customization Options
The Rig Rite 960 itself doesn’t come with any specific accessories, but its design lends itself well to customization. Mounting hardware (screws, bolts, washers) is necessary for installation, but these are typically chosen based on the specific console material and control type. Any modifications will depend on the requirements of the application.
The King StarBoard material is compatible with a wide range of paints and adhesives, allowing for further customization of the board’s appearance. It is also relatively simple to add features like edge trim or cable management solutions.
Pros and Cons of Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual
Pros
- Exceptional Durability: The King StarBoard construction ensures long-lasting performance in harsh marine environments.
Cons
- Requires some level of modification to fit a specific application.
Easy to Modify: The board can be easily cut, drilled, and shaped using standard woodworking tools.
Stable and Reliable: Provides a solid and vibration-free mounting platform for shift and throttle controls.
Low Maintenance: Requires minimal cleaning and upkeep.
Professional Appearance: Offers a clean and aesthetically pleasing finish to the console.
While durable, King StarBoard can be scratched if not treated with care.
Who Should Buy Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual?
The Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual is perfect for boat owners, marine mechanics, and DIY enthusiasts who are installing or replacing shift and throttle controls on their vessels. It’s a great solution for anyone who wants a durable, reliable, and professional-looking mounting platform. It’s especially useful for repowering projects.
Those who should skip this product are those looking for a drop-in, pre-drilled solution for a specific control type, as some modification is generally required. Additionally, if you are extremely budget-conscious and willing to fabricate your own board from less durable materials, you might consider an alternative, though I wouldn’t recommend it. It’s hard to beat the quality for the price.
Must-have accessories for installation include appropriate mounting hardware (screws, bolts, washers), a drill, a jigsaw or similar cutting tool, and measuring tools (tape measure, square).
Conclusion on Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual
Overall, the Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual is a well-designed and thoughtfully executed product that delivers on its promises. The King StarBoard construction provides exceptional durability and resistance to the elements, while the ease of modification allows for a customized fit in a wide range of applications. It’s difficult to fault this product.
At a price of $57.99, the Rig Rite 960 represents excellent value for money. The time and effort saved by using this pre-cut, easily customizable board, combined with its long-term durability, make it a worthwhile investment for any boat owner. The Rig Rite 960 is a solid investment.
I would absolutely recommend the Rig Rite 960 Shift And Throttle Control Mounting Board Dual to anyone looking for a reliable and professional-looking solution for mounting shift and throttle controls on their boat. If you’re tired of flimsy, makeshift solutions and want a product that will stand the test of time, look no further. Upgrade your boat today.