www.iFourWinns.com

VP/Merc
Not a debate starter thread at all i hope. I have had two mercs and currently have a VP...each have some betters and not so better aspects. I just ran across a good article pointing out some dealer perspective issues on both....its not too long and a good read.

http://www.hoffmasters.com/power.html

Tow Mode
I would like to add a Tow controller (tow mode - smart tow - perfect pass etc) to my boat. I have no clue if this can be an aftermarket add-on or not and if so, how complicated/costly it is. I read a couple write-ups on Tow Mode by VP, but seems you set the rpm level to be constant instead of speed??? Seems to me that isn't what is desired.....when wakeboarding with the wind you don't need near the rpm as you do when you make that turn into the wind. When it comes down to it the speed is what needs to be constant.

Does anyone have this system on a VP setup - how much is cost - does it work as you anticipated - how difficult to install???? Thanks for any input.

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http://i1339.photobucket.com/albums/o71 ... wqm355.jpg


08' H210SS
VP 5.7Gi

Merc sucks.

Just wanted to help make sure it's not a bashing thread.

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Mike
2005 Four Winns 230/240
VP 5.7GXi/DP
1998 F-150 XLT
Boat Pic

We currently have VP DP. However, our next boat would be Merc DTS with smart tow.
I had a chance to play with a friend of mine`s boat with smart tow which is very impressive. We can program 5 different setting (Speed and acceleration rate) the boat takes off it self with and maintain the speed once it reaches to the set speed. The most important part is you do not need skilled driver when you tow picky rider so my wife can tow me and maintain the harmony of our marriage…

I have not have chance to drive VP EVC platform (Electronic Vessel Control) with tow mode package yet but my understanding is acceleration rate to set point is not adjustable as Smart Tow of Merc. If we need to retrofit these unit Merc engine need to have DTS and VP need to have EVC. Therefore retrofit from our current boat is not cheap and easy.... Getting Perfect Pass might be a only few option but do not get same functions offerd with Smart Tow.

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08 H260 VP 8.1Gi DP.....Previous
2013 Crownline E6 Merc 8.2MAG BIIIX, DTS/SC

There are a few of us that have installed Perfect Pass, and I would swear by it. Do a search on the forum, and see how easy it is to do. I can't think of anyone here with PP on a volvo, but they do make the proper kits for it. As far as setting speed, and acceleration/speed of response... all programable. You can also choose between Wakeboard (GPS mode), or RPM mode, which is nice when cruising. For the price, ease of install and operation, I am very happy with mine... as is the GF!

I like that link. Lots of info, however IMO Merc is the shnizle..... Volvo Sux!

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Walt B
"Debt-Charged"
Black '07 H210SS
6.2L Bravo One turning a 21P HIFive
Wakeboard Tower with Perfect Pass Stargazer version
Missouri River; Kansas City, Mo.

I have SmartTow as part of my MercMonitor. It is a PITA to set up and use. I would hope that the dedicated SmartTow speedo would be easier to use.

I do love my DTS

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2008 210SS 6.2L DTS Bravo 1 Now featuring MercMonitor w/SmartTow