low speed steering

[captn-tin]

i have a 2001 lund 18oo fisherman with f115 yamaha motor. low speed manuvering (trolling - docking) is horrible. could prop size or design affect this problem? thanx for any input....captn-tin

 

[steelespike]

Re: low speed steering

Can you be a little more specific?Does it wander?Is reverse unresponsive?
Has it been this way since new?4blade props help low speed handling and reverse
response.
Also improves hole shot and ability to stay on plane at reduced throttle.
Some times reduces top speed slightly.Low speed wander is helped with trim tabs
something like smart tabs.Wander can also be reduced by careful attention and
try not to over correct.Some props have a ring around the hub that improve reverse response.

 

[captn-tin]

Re: low speed steering

no. it does not seem to wander. at low speed it it seems that you have to oversteer to make it go where you want, and then oversteer again the other direction to get it back on track. the boat has done this since i got it. it is a great fishing platform for the type of fishing i do, i just wish it was more responsive at low speed. it has an aluminum 3 blade prop on it now. reverse is a little slow in response too. i hope this info gives you a little better picture of whats going on. thanks for the reply.

 

[steelespike]

Re: low speed steering

Your description does sound a little bit like wander.You have to be on your toes
to notice any correction before it gets too far off.and watch that you stop the correction before the boat goes too far the other way.Smart tabs are said to reduce wander.You might try adjusting you motor trim.Perhaps more weight in the bow.
I think control would be best with the motor trimmed level or closer to all the way down.Is the antivent plate(just above the prop)about even with the bottom of the boat?Again a 4 blade prop does help slow speed control and reverse.

 

[captn-tin]

Re: low speed steering

thank you very much for the info. think maybe i'll take er out and practice docking etc (get to know my boat better!) if that doesn't work i'll try a 4-blader. thanks again