Steering while in reverse

[BrandonC83]

I have a 1986 bayliner cabin cruiser - the darn thing always wants to go to the left when I put it in reverse. Nothing is wrong with the steering visually and mechanically the drive turns fine. I can't figure it out - I've read a couple posts that says this is not uncommon. I'm starting to wonder if a trolling motor would help me for those times I have to steer while reversing like unloading and putting my boat into its slip.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Steering while in reverse

The is normal. The left hand rotating prop will try to thrust the stern to port. It's called prop walk. It's even happening when you go forward but not as noticeable.

Fileropeller Walk.svg - Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia

If you had a duo-prop, you wouldn't have the issue!

 

[tomdinwv]

Re: Steering while in reverse

I believe it's prop torque that causes what you're describing. Happens on my boat too.

 

[thumpar]

Re: Steering while in reverse

It is normal. Trimming up may help a little. I think practice is your best route.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Steering while in reverse

If backing is a big issue.Example: causing you to bump other boats when backing into a slip.You can use a prop with more "Bite" Based on the size boat you have with a single,you probably have a pretty big prop on it or you should.With a larger prop and intermittent "Taps/bumps" into rev -neutral and into rev again will make the boat react differently than putting it into rev and leaving it in rev.(thats when the boat starts pulling to 1 side) Charlie

 

[masongardner]

Re: Steering while in reverse

Try learning to back up a direct drive if you think yours is weird.

 

[airshot]

Re: Steering while in reverse

If you know which way the boat is going to walk then turn the wheel the opposite way when you bump reverse, that is what I do.......

 

[Mi duckdown]

Re: Steering while in reverse

Normal. just Got to learn How to park a boat, wind, curruent.