Any advice on what route to take for this that is the most direct? I have about 15ft of wire for remote and cannot extend it.

I can get from stereo down to cabinet at foot of aft cabin. Where to from there?

The factory is VERY helpful. Call (260) 724-1121 and ask for the TAG group.

the path we took was thru the passenger seat gunwhale? area across the front of the engine bay where all the wires are back up to helm i dont think 15' will get it

use a wireless style..way less trouble

I just did this. I installed the Sony Commander and its great, blows away any wireless remote! What you have to do is pull up the gas tank inspection hatch. There should be an opening from the side storage area about where the bolsters are. Here you can push the wires through. i tried using a snake but the wires got stuck. before you rip up the hatch, make sure these opening are in your boat. I have a 242 so I don't know if all models have this. If you have any further questions let me know.