Warrior Remote Steering System vs. Mertens Engine Stee

[jickyjack]

I understand how both systems work, but don't have extensive experience with either. I was wondering if anyone out there has used both systems, and had any feedback on there preference?

[dutchboy]

I have not used either.

The Warrior system is exclusive to Warrior. Where as the Mertens can be had for most brands I believe.
Other then that it will become a Ford vs Chev argument.

[jickyjack]

The reason I am asking is I am looking at going Tiller for the first time. I like the Warrior boats alot....however, Triton and Ranger make quality products as well. I just want to do my due diligence in research before I make my decision and this is one of many points of contention. That being said...I realize that Warriors Remote System is truly remote (not on the handle) while the Mertens System allows you to still control the boat with the handle while not having torque issues. Is there benefits to either one over the other when it's windy? When it's not windy? When you are trollling in high winds? etc.

[Hot Runr Guy]

jickyjack,
First of all, welcome back to the tiller side. It takes some guys longer than others to graduate from (training) wheel boats. What size rig/how much hp are you thinking about? I've run both Mertens systems, the fully-powered Enginesteer (now owned by Mercury) and the non-powered, Titan system (on my current rig). I think I fully understand the operation of the Warrior ProTiller system, but I've never run one. Once we get a better idea on what your "target" rig setup is, we can help explain which makes the most sense.
HRG

[jickyjack]

Size of the rig is another point of contention. I am still evaluating how much boat I can get away with on big water. I am looking at both the 1890BT as well as the 2090BT or 620T with somewhere between 115 and 150 HP depending on which size of boat I decide on, obviously. Ultimately a 20 footer would be nice. However, price does play a part in the evaluation. I have fished out of a 620T with the Mertens (Mercury) Enginesteer and it seems to be the cat's meow. However, while I have never fished out of either the 1890BT or 2090BT I have got some feedback on that system as well. Here is the deal...I have one guy I know that thinks the Merc Steer is where it's at and I know another guy that swears by Warriors System. I am really just looking for other opinions to help in my evaluation. Especially, if there is someone who has had experience running both. I hope this narrows it down enough for you. If you want to chime in on what you think the 1890BT or 618T can handle (as far as wind conditions on big water) compared to the 2090BT or 620T I am all ears on that as well.

[Focker]

Like many guys on here, and I'm sure they'll respond, I have run them both.

Mertens: Yeah, it's cool. Using it while it's operating normally is extremely easy, very intuitive, in short--it's awesome. Stays where you leave it and anybody can move it.
I can't tell you what the fail safe is. I assume without fluid, it's manual reversion. I also assume if the pump quits, once the pressure is off, same thing, but I don't know that. Somebody on here does.

Warrior: Light years ahead of not having it. I appreciate it most while running in a nasty crosswind. I also use it anytime I want to divert my attention while running in calm water, or while on long back trolling runs puttin' a new worm on a harness. No longer does my buddy who is paying attention say "UUhh, turning circles" or "crashing".
So, it's good to. Yes, being able to turn it on and off, on this system, is a good thing.
Having said all that, it's also imperative or you wouldn't like it. With the Mertens, it's not required, just always "on", everybody loves it.

Here's your one liner I assume your looking for:
While head to head I would pick the Mertens, it alone is not enough to pick the boat that is most fishable to you. good luck

[FEDER]

Have run both steering systems during the last 8 years,Mertens the last 6 years. Everyone likes the system they use on their boat so i would suggest run both systems and you will know right away which system is the one for you. If you are thinking in the range up to 115 H.P. also check out the Titan non-powered by Mertens, a really great unit also.

Please give me a call, would be happy to answer any more questions you may have.
1-218-255-3535

George Feder

[Btfrk]

Great answer Focker, I agree, I would not let the steering dictate which boat I bought as they both accomplish the same thing..... reduced arm fatigue.:rockit:

[my 02 cents]

I've ran both the warrior system and currently running the mertens system on my 620T. Both do a phenominal job of reducing arm fatigue. I agree in that you should make your decision based off of the boat rather than the steering assist system. You won't be disappointed in either system. If I was forced to pick only one regardless of boat, I would lean towards the Mertens system only because it is always on so to speak. Long runs are really nice with the warrior system, you simply are steering with your thumb on a toggle switch. The Mertens system allows you to get up to speed and you can literally let go of the tiller handle and it will drive straight ahead...no fatigue at all. Again, both systems are great, you can't go wrong with either one.

arnieMn

[walleyeguide]

this is how I see it.


i would rather steer in rough conditions with the tiller handle in my hand vs. steering with momentary switches.
i would rather have my right hand on the grab handle (stbd, side) and left hand on the tiller handle.
i have used both of the mertens products (titan,PTS) both systems have been GREAT!
i am currently running the merc big tiller on a 175 pro xs, this is also a great system.
if running a 115 hp or less i would run the TITAN with out question, (simplicity& cost)

good luck frank

[Jason Erlandson]

Both systems are nice and accomplish the same thing. I really enjoy the pro tiller system on my Warrior. It is very simple and safe. In 6 years I have never had any issues with it. It performs flawlessly in every condition. I think you would be very pleased with a Warrior and the Pro Tiller System. Have fun with your choice as they are both good options.
Jason Erlandson