MaviMare KIT654 Dual-Station Control Kit – Selector Unit for 2 Helms

The MaviMare KIT654 is the heart of a dual-station steering system, allowing a boat to have two fully functional helm stations controlling a single engine. Installed in-line between the control levers and the engine, this selector unit brings together the two sets of cables (one from each helm) and coordinates their motion. KIT654 works like a mechanical “switch”: when you operate the controls from one station, the selector automatically “engages” that station’s cables to the engine and simultaneously “disengages” the other station’s cables, effectively locking the inactive helm in neutral. The result is that at any given time, only one helm is actually commanding throttle and shift, while the other helm’s levers remain stationary (they stay in sync and ready, but do not drive the engine controls until given back control).

The all-stainless-steel construction of the KIT654 is key to its reliability. The damp, enclosed spaces where this selector often resides (engine room or aft bilge) demand that the device be highly corrosion-resistant – MaviMare achieves this by using AISI 316 stainless steel for the majority of components. This includes the gear mechanisms, shafts, and fasteners. As a result, even after years of service, the selector will function like new, provided the control cables themselves are maintained properly.

Installation & Configuration: The kit includes the selector unit and detailed hookup diagrams. Typically, the KIT654 is mounted near the engine (or at a convenient midpoint where the two helm cable runs meet). From each helm to the selector, you run two cables (one for throttle, one for shift). From the selector to the engine, you have another set of cables (throttle + shift). The selector has arms/levers where these cables attach. Setting it up requires synchronization – the levers at both helms should be aligned (usually in neutral) during installation. After setup, transferring control becomes straightforward: when the captain at the lower helm wants to hand over to the upper helm, they bring the lower lever to neutral and stop operating it – the person at the upper station can now take over, since their lever is also in neutral and ready. While the upper helm is in command (throttling up or shifting gears), the lower helm lever will feel resistance and remain locked until the upper lever is returned to neutral. At that point, the system allows control to swap again.

Advantages of KIT654: The biggest benefit is safety – it eliminates the possibility of two people simultaneously (intentionally or accidentally) sending conflicting commands, which could otherwise cause damage (for example, one person throttling up while the other shifts into reverse – such conflict is impossible with KIT654). Additionally, operating a boat with dual helms becomes much more intuitive and smooth without the need for electronic management – everything is purely mechanical and direct. Captains also appreciate the smoothness – KIT654 introduces very minimal extra resistance or play into the control system, so the feel of the controls remains tight and precise. This is critical during close-quarter maneuvers, where fine lever movements must translate accurately to engine response.

In summary, MaviMare KIT654 is extremely valuable for boats with dual controls. Investing in this kit means greater flexibility in vessel operation (for instance, you can steer from the flybridge in good weather or from the protected cabin in foul weather) and an increase in the boat’s functionality and resale value. By installing KIT654, owners get Italian-engineered quality and elegant simplicity that enhance their boating experience and onboard safety.