Electronic Engine Control Systems FAQ

Maritronix supplies the full NHK MEC KE Series: KE-4XG, KE-5XG, KE-6+ and KE-7+, together with the NHK MEC KE+ Handheld Remote Control. All four KE Series models cover single-engine and twin-engine boats.

The four KE Series models differ by the type of throttle and shift on the engine and gearbox:

• KE-4XG — mechanical throttle and mechanical shift
• KE-5XG — electronic throttle and electronic shift
• KE-6+ — electronic throttle and mechanical shift
• KE-7+ — mechanical throttle and electronic shift

The correct model depends on the exact engine and gearbox installation.

For mechanical throttle and mechanical shift, the correct kit is the NHK MEC KE-4XG. The KE-4XG drives both throttle and shift through electronically controlled actuators while keeping the original mechanical interfaces on the engine and gearbox.

For engines with electronic throttle and electronic shift, the correct kit is the NHK MEC KE-5XG. The KE-5XG provides the helm-side control head and electronic interface for fully electronic engine packages.

For engines with electronic throttle and mechanical shift, the correct kit is the NHK MEC KE-6+. It connects the helm to the engine’s electronic throttle signal and drives the gearbox shift through a mechanical actuator.

For engines with mechanical throttle and electronic shift, the correct kit is the NHK MEC KE-7+. It drives the throttle through a mechanical actuator and connects to the gearbox’s electronic shift interface.

The correct system depends on whether the boat uses mechanical throttle, mechanical shift, electronic throttle, electronic shift or a combination of these. Before ordering, Maritronix should check the engine model, gearbox type, number of engines, number of helm stations, boat voltage and required cable lengths. Contact Maritronix for a compatibility check with these details.