steering problems

[captn-tin]

have 2000 lund 18fisherman yammie f115, & f9.9. at slow trolling speeds, and docking,ESPECIALLY DOCKING, the steering control seems almost non-existent. at low speeds it seems like i always have to oversteer to keep my line, then oversteer the other way to correct it. this is not good when docking an aluminum boat! any help appreciated...thanks captn-tin

 

[Les Robb]

Re: steering problems

Single engine docking with any engine is tough under conditions of wind and current. You may find that it's best not to idle in. Now you had better practice away from the dock but the only way your going to be able to get control is with power. Watch others and note that applied power will get you where you want and do it with a minimum of effort.
You will have try this a number of times untill you become comfortable with your throttle and the right amount of power you need to control the boat.

Just takes time to learn ya'll

 

[Bondo]

Re: steering problems

at low speeds it seems like i always have to oversteer to keep my line, then oversteer the other way to correct it.

Ayuh,... It's a Boat, Not a Car,... It's Water, Not Blacktop....

Don't Steer so much,.. It'll come back by itself...

 

[CheapboatKev]

Re: steering problems

Just remember the only time you have control of true steering is while under power...If you have more wind & current than power..you are at their mercy..

Some gun it in..back off for a second when the bow is 45 degrees to the dock,
crank the wheel over, prop to the dock, gun her in reverse for a burst to pull in her behind..

I was scoping local ramps this afternoon to see the kind of people there, how crowded and such..

Watch a 15 or 16 ft open bow have all kinds of problems getting alongside..looked like his father almost fell out trying to grab the piling...

 

[captn-tin]

Re: steering problems

thanks for the tips everyone. i'm kinda thinkin that maybe the bow in first and then pullin boat alongside might possably be the way to go. anyone use that method?

 

[Les Robb]

Re: steering problems

Well you know the old saying any landing you can walk away from is a good landing, but you will learn if you practice that you have much better control of your boat in reverse. That's why trolling motors are mounted on the bow normally and are pulling the boat. Better control is the key to better docking.

Luck again ya'll

 

[tashasdaddy]

Re: steering problems

what type steering system? hydrolic, could be low on fluid.

 

[LIQUID PROZAC]

Re: steering problems

practice in the water next to bouy or try to find an empty dock and practice coming in and backing out without touching the dock-- you will get the feel of it and look like a pro