Latham Marine Spacer Kits serve the big outboard market at Fort Lauderdale International Boat Show
by Marilyn DeMartini 26 Oct 2018 07:50 PDT
Latham Marine, with roots in powerboat racing, has stayed on top of the high performance after-market parts segment by answering the needs of its discerning customers. Bob Latham has been influential in the design and manufacturing of high performance steering systems and parts for over 45 years and as buyers' tastes have evolved into high-powered center console boats, the trusted company has expanded its product line. Bigger center console boats with bigger outboard engines require not just bigger parts, but the best and strongest aftermarket parts--and that IS what Latham Marine has built its reputation on.
Spacers: The Final Frontier
Latham Marine's patented Spacer Kits are being used on Mercury, Yamaha and most-recently Suzuki engines. The company also worked closely with Mercury Marine to be prepared for the newly released V-8 engines. Both boat builders and their customers seek the proper height of the engines to keep the powerhead out of the wash and the propellers at the right level in the water - a common issue with multi-engine configurations.
The kits are customized for each application and have improved the performance of many fishing and high-performance center consoles. Leading manufacturers like Cigarette Racing Team, Intrepid, HydraSports and Bahama Boat Works have long depended on Latham Marine for its strong and impeccably built steering systems but then found they needed other custom parts as their boats evolved in style and size.
Power on Demand - Variable Speed Pumps
Latham Marine's Variable Speed Pump has continued to be high-tech and in high demand by center console owners. This innovation by Bob Latham, the industry's "go-to guy" for problem solving, prevents the pump from drawing excessive electrical power at idle. In addition, the new "Power on Demand" control system minimizes pump noise while maintaining effortless steering at all times. "Power on Demand" is driven by a microprocessor that varies the amount of power going to the pump based on how fast the steering wheel is turned. Latham Marine can even custom program the Variable Speed Steering Pump to change the feel and response at the helm.
Two models serve a variety of users: one is best suited for 1-3 engine systems and applications where space or weight may be an issue; the motor is equipped with a fan to keep the oil and electronics cool. The other model is for 3 or more engine configurations and for heavyweight, high-use commercial or government vessels. This model adds lower RPM, which reduces noise while its larger electric motor features more power and flow.
Now You FLIR it, Now You Don't
Latham Marine also teamed up with Electronics Unlimited in the creation of the Nighthawk II, a thermal night vision camera that increases situational awareness. Bob Latham designed and manufactures the retractable platform that enables the camera to disappear into the hull when not in use. Performance builders like MTI found the camera in high demand by powerboaters who run at night and seek safe conditions in any low-light boating scenario. The Nighthawk II will be on display on an MTI 42V at Bahia Mar, dock H-I 27-29 and at Electronics Unlimited, Orange Zone Electronics Tent, booth #323.
The Strongest Name In Tie Bars
Latham Marine Tie Bars are being used on the Evinrude E-TEC G2 engines as well as the extra-high horsepower Seven Marine Engines, which have also made waves in the industry. Tie bars and Steering Rams have been a mainstay of Latham Marine's product mix since its inception, and the line has grown to include pumps, controls, trim tabs, and multiple accessories.
Rugged Rudders
Other boat builders, not recognized for performance but for luxury, like Hatteras, have also become Latham Marine customers, adding the company's rugged rudders to their build. Hatteras found that they needed an upgraded, more robust stainless steel rudder and Latham provided the answer.
Give Your Boat A Lift
Thunderbird Boats has also used a custom Latham Marine hydraulic lift on its boats for many years and another long-time customer, U.S. government agencies and military units, as well as other ally nations, rely on Latham Marine parts "when failure is not an option."
Latham's World Class Marine Hardware & Steering™ is purchased factory direct, but at the boat show, customers can also see those products in-use on the broad spectrum of boats and motors.