Blog

Updated: February 2026 The Complete Guide to Sleipner Bow & Stern Thrusters (Side‑Power): Choosing, Installing, and Using Them with Confidence Docking shouldn’t be the most stressful part of boating. A properly designed and professionally installed thruster system can dramatically improve low‑speed control—especially in wind, current, tight fairways, and single‑handed situations. Want help sizing a thruster system for your boat?Get a quick recommendation based on your boat, s …

3 Essentials for Upgrading to the NHK MEC KE System (and How to Pick the Right One) If your boat still runs mechanical cables, hydraulic controls, or an older electronic setup, you’ve probably felt the common pain points: stiff lever feel, inconsistent response, and touchy low-speed control—especially when docking in wind/current or trying to hold a steady troll. Upgrading to the NHK MEC KE system modernizes how your boat responds at idle and at the helm. It’s designed to make …

 NHK MEC KE-4a Maintenance, Troubleshooting, and Replacement Guide (Upgrade Path to KE-4XG) KE-4a systems are proven, but aging installations and discontinued electronics mean preventative maintenance matters more than ever. This guide covers: quick checks, common symptoms, what parts can still be serviced or replaced, and when an upgrade to KE-4XG is required. Morse KE Controls - now NHK MEC KE Controls These systems were commonly referred to as Morse KE Controls, but they have always be …

Spectra Ventura 150 and 200 Maintenance Guide (Connect and Deluxe) This guide is written for Spectra Ventura 150 and Ventura 200T owners (both Spectra Connect and manual/remote manual controls). It focuses on the maintenance items that most directly affect reliability: fresh water flushing, prefilters, charcoal flush filter, and (optionally) Z-Ion membrane protection. At a glance: Ventura 150 vs Ventura 200T Ventura 150: designed for broad operating conditions and efficient daily use. Ventura …

Zipwake PRO vs Trim Tabs: a deep dive that actually helps you choose Short answer: both systems control running attitude to tame pitch and roll. Traditional trim tabs (e.g., Lenco electric or Bennett hydraulic/electric) are proven, widely available, and cost-effective. Zipwake PRO uses fast interceptors that add precision, speed, and cleaner hydrodynamics with more placement options. If you want a modern, scalable system that you can tailor and upgrade, Zipwake PRO is usually the better long-ter …