Shallow Water Solutions’ “Tuff-tiller”
When we put out the invitation for our tiller extension review, we didn’t receive one, but three sample tillers from Shallow Water Solutions. Called the Tuff-tiller, this extension includes a simple but elegant kill switch design. If the outboard is equipped from the factory with a kill switch button at the end of the handle, the Tuff-tiller has a linkage mechanism, through the tiller shaft, that depresses the kill button on the outboards' twist grip. Our sample tillers had this linkage positioned in two different places. We found the model with the linkage at the fore end of the grip, the most natural to use. If the outboard does not have this option, the Tuff-tiller comes without a kill switch linkage, at a substantial savings.
Made from rugged PVC construction and available in “any length”, according to Mr. Caverly, the Tuff-tiller also features a tear resistant vinyl grip and is made with corrosion resistant materials. A flared boot tip helps to retain the clamps when not in use on the outboard. However we would like to see hose clamp end guards included with the kit to cover the sharp ends of the clamps.
Installation was simple, yet care is needed to ensure the kill switch mechanism is properly aligned with the outboard's handle kill switch. We also had to double check the tightness of the clamps to ensure that the tiller would not slip forward, causing a misalignment with the kill switch.
The tiller exhibited more flex than other models, but only under extreme conditions. Vibration dampening was good due to its mass and comfortable grip. At 1.8 pounds the 40” Tuff-tiller with the kill switch linkage, was the second heaviest model. Remove the linkage and the weight comes in mid group at 1.4 pounds.
Overall the Tuff-tiller receives high marks for innovative design and budget price.
Price as tested: $60.00 - with “kill" button mechanism and standard black satin finish up to 48”. $ 30.00 - standard extension (no-mechanism)
Company Contact Info:
Shallow Water Solutions
Pat Caverly
Tampa,Fl.
813-242-4971
patjulcav@gmail.com
Tuff-tiller.com
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