The Complete Guide to IM Series Industrial Mechanical Controls: Built for Rugged Australian Industries

Industrial machinery operating across Australia faces some of the harshest environments on earth. From transport networks and agricultural machinery to heavy-duty marine vessels, operators require absolute precision when handling throttle speeds and transmission shifting.

At the heart of these high-stakes applications are industrial mechanical controls. Multiflex Australia, based in Mt Ku-ring-gai, New South Wales, has engineered the IM Series—a premier range of single-function, top-mounted control units specifically designed to conquer these demanding operating conditions.

In this comprehensive guide, we break down the engineering behind the IM Series and look at how our five core configurations seamlessly integrate with standard 3/16” and 1/4” push-pull control cables.

The Engineering Behind the IM Series: Industrial & Marine Synergy

What does the "IM" stand for? Industrial and Marine.

By merging the salt-and-spray durability needed for marine environments with the rugged structural strength demanded by industrial transport, the IM Series delivers heavy-duty dependability across the board. These top-mount levers feature standard universal footprints, allowing them to serve as direct drop-in replacements for older competitor models, minimizing downtime during upgrades or fleet maintenance.

The IM Series is split into two distinct mechanical functionalities based on handle colour:

• Red Handles (Throttle Control): Feature an internal brake mechanism. Simply twist the handle to lock the throttle position firmly against engine vibrations or cable creep.
• Black Handles (Gear Shifting): Feature positive mechanical detents that lock safely into three distinct positions: Forward, Neutral, and Reverse (FWD / NEU / REV).

Selecting the Right IM Series Control Configuration

Depending on your machinery setup, panel space, and operator needs, the IM Series is available in five distinct single and twin-lever layouts:

1. Single Throttle Precision: The Red Handle (70124)

For dedicated, single-function throttle management, the IM Series Single Red Handled Control (70124) is the industry standard. The high-visibility red handle and twist-to-lock friction mechanism give operators total control over stationary engines, pumps, or constant-speed agricultural equipment without the risk of accidental slip.

2. Confident Gear Shifting: The Black Handle (70125)

When your primary focus is transmission performance, the IM Series Single Black Handled Control (70125) offers a dedicated shifting solution. With crisp FWD / NEU / REV mechanical detent locks, operators receive unmistakable tactile feedback, preventing accidental over-shifting in busy industrial spaces.

3. Dual Engine Throttle Control: Twin Red Handles (70223)

Managing dual engines or twin-pump stations requires synchronized reliability. The IM Series Twin Red Handled Control (70223) provides two independent, single-function red levers in a single top-mount housing. Both levers feature individual twist-lock friction brakes to hold separate throttle speeds perfectly balanced.

4. Consolidated Powerhouse: Twin Red & Black Combination (70239)

Optimize your operator cabin dashboard space with the IM Series Twin Red + Black Handle Control (70239). This dual-lever workstation brings together one twist-lock red throttle handle and one detented black gear shift lever into a compact footprint. It is the ultimate choice for integrated industrial transport vehicles and commercial vessels.

5. Specialized Multi-Shifting: Twin Black Handles (70240)

For niche industrial machinery, transit concrete mixers, or dual-gearbox setups, the IM Series Twin Black Handled Control (70240) offers dual independent shifting mechanisms. Both levers lock tightly into FWD / NEU / REV positions, providing robust routing paths for complex mechanical linkages.

Cable Compatibility: Powering Your Motion Control

A control lever is only as good as the push-pull cable connected to it. The entire IM Series is designed to suit standard 30 Series - 3/16” or heavy-duty 40 Series 1/4” push-pull control cables, seamlessly pairing with both Version 3 and Version 4 (Morse style) cable setups.

If your machinery requires adaptation to thicker, heavy-duty 1/4" industrial linkages, the IM Series Controls - V4 Cable Adaptor Kit (70310) is available to ensure a secure, zero-play installation.

Proudly Australian Owned and Supported

As an Australian-owned assembler and manufacture, based in Mt Ku-ring-gai, NSW, Multiflex Australia provides local businesses with deep engineering expertise, rapid national distribution, and accessible technical data sheet downloads.

Whether you are looking to purchase an individual replacement lever or spec out an entire OEM fleet system, our local support team is ready to assist with custom control solutions.

Ready to order online for fast delivery anywhere in Australia? Visit our trusted online partner, Industrial and Cable Group, to browse and buy the complete IM Series control range directly.