Carver Owners Forum

The boat we are purchasing (2002 396) has twin Cummins 6BTA 5.9's but the throttle controls are Volvo Penta. I'm not sure if this was a factory option, but as far as I know there have been no upgrades.

My question: The throttle control says "Electronic Diesel Control" but when I asked the broker he said that it was just cable operated (mechanical) and not electronic. So is this Volvo Penta throttle able to be setup as both an electronic version as well as a mechanical version? I read in the manual that the dual helm came equipped with an electronic throttles but this boat only has an upper helm on the flybridge.

I have scoured online looking for a photo of another similar year model 396 with Cummins engines AND a Volvo Penta throttle but have not seen that combo anywhere else. Anyone else have a similar setup?

Thanks for any help!!

Updating to include a photo of the integrated throttle/gear shifter on the boat (i.e. single lever controls).

Added throttle pic for reference.

Just does not seem correct to have Volvo throttle but if they are just pulling wires to activate shift or throttle any brand will work. In order to operate electronically there is a bunch of electronics required not to mention actuators on engines and transmissions. Can it be converted, probably but I am going to assume close to $15,000 before all is installed and calibrated. Biggest issue is you will have a one of a kind and repairs or troubleshooting will be very difficult and expensive. I highly suggest you put this though to rest and rely on good old fashion cables.

Thanks Hans,

I'm definitely not looking to sink that kind of money into electronic throttles - I had no idea it would be that expensive! Cables sound good to me! I just couldn't figure out why Carver used the Volvo Penta throttles with the Cummins engines. Carver must have had some of these on a shelf that needed to get used up!

Thanks again!

I have a 2000 Carver 396 / Cummins 5.9L that will need throttle cables replaced. I can’t find any markings at helm end or engine end that indicate length. Anyone have insights on the lengths of the four cables?