Marine diesel engine manufacturer YANMAR introduces the new 4JH80 SPP (Steerable Propulsion Pod), the only joystick maneuvering system for large sailing yachts.

Intuitive and simple to use, the high performance YANMAR 4JH80 SPP is a fully-integrated system offered as a total propulsion package that provides an exceptional level of control previously unavailable to sailboats. The unique system is powered by YANMAR’s 4JH80 marine diesel engine which has been purpose engineered to unite with ZF Marine’s 360-degree rotating saildrive and connects seamlessly to the recommended quiet and lightweight Vetus extended run bow thruster, all under full electronic joystick control. This complete package makes maneuvering under power while docking, mooring, anchoring and navigating in busy marinas or tight channels easier than ever before.

The advanced YANMAR 80mhp 4JH80 engine uses electronically-controlled common-rail direct fuel injection for responsive, super clean, quiet, smooth and fuel-efficient performance, demonstrating YANMAR’s ‘5x best-in-class’ features reflected throughout its new generation of marine diesel engines. Only compatible with the interconnective YANMAR engine, the 360-degree rotating saildrive is equipped with the latest technology. The entire system comes fully pre-wired for easy and seamless installation.

Easy, smooth precision is possible via the comfortable joystick which can be moved ahead, astern, port, starboard or any points in between to move the yacht in the desired direction, or rotated to turn the boat on its own axis. Direct sideways movement engages the bow thruster, capable of continuous operation for up to 7 minutes. Combination movements are ideal for use in congested areas, with the speed of the boat directly proportional to the applied force.

Floris Lettinga, YANMAR MARINE INTERNATIONAL’s Sr. Global Sales Manager, said: “The 4JH80 SPP represents a significant breakthrough in technology and performance over traditional piloting systems. Through YANMAR, joystick maneuvering that was previously only an option to powerboats is now available for all large sailing yachts. By combining the renowned ‘5x best-in-class’ features and reliability of our diesel engine with the enhanced 360 rotating saildrive, skippers are now able to take precise fingertip control of every operation under power. For superior handling, safety, comfort, efficiency and maneuverability – the YANMAR 4JH80 SPP is the ultimate joystick system for sailing yachts.”

For information about the YANMAR 4JH80 SPP, visit Mack Boring & Parts Co., Tent A31/A35/A33 at the United States Sailboat Show or view the video here: http://youtu.be/MNOpY3iXrOc