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I ordered our new "M" {#475} with a Merc.9.9,no bells or whistles,tiller model. I think the 9.9 is all I really need, however after several times at a busy ramp , with a little breeze,I now wish I had elec. start ,and throttle,gear controls. There are only 3 or 4 hours on the engine. My question is,does anyone know if I would be able to trade,plus $ ,or would it be cheaper for me to, find and install,some universal cables. I know the "would of,should of ,could of", will fit here , but this is my situation.I can ,of course, get by with the way it is,but any advise would be appreciated....Thank you all. Happy sailing! Don

I've heard of some dealers that have a "trade-up" program, but otoh, it may be hard for them to get rid of a slightly used motor too. Probably each dealers policies are different. Have you asked your dealer about it?

I used a 9.9 merc this summer,my first. It.s kind of hard to see where you're going, not to mention the constant lifting the transom seat up, and down. If your crew are novice sailors like I was, they're very likely not going to tell you about the fishing boat off your starboard bow whose lines you just fouled. Sigh! I've been there. So. I just got a merc 60 which I'm mounting over the next month or so. New merc 9.9's have the potential for cable and steering hook-up. Just ask your local merc dealer and he can set you up. Mine was an early 80's model and it couldn't be retrofitted, but your in luck, probably. I got a Mercury 3000 classic, concealed mount control, with port side bezel. I would also suggest getting tilt-trim. You won't need it for your 9.9 but, you may want to up your HP someday, and it's hard to add later. Mercury controls are one of a few that fit inside the M binnacle. To save money, Ultra-flex universal controls also fit inside, but i'm not sure if they cover Mercurys, but they fit all Japanese motors. Call first. Once You get control at the helm, you're going to have a lot more fun.

forgot to suggest that you take your cowling off, and look at the flywheel on top to see if it has gear teeth. If it does, of course, you're in like Flynn. Additionaly, You might want to look at "Blue water Yachts" quick disconnect motor connector, since I'll bet you didn't get one for your 9.9. Good luck with the changes.

Thank you Dimitri,unfortunally my dealer is in California,but I will check local. Richard,those are a couple of great suggestions,it's too late tonite ,but I will check for the toothed ring-gear tomorow,Thanks. Happy Sailing.....Don