Boat won't turn to port????

[jcac27]

Hello all... <br />3.0L mercruiser w/ alpha 1 od on a 18 ft open bow<br /><br />Got my new (used) boat out there on saturday and encountered an odd problem... I can turn left at slower speeds, but at wot, if I try to turn left, the boat just starts to tip over to the left and does not turn at all. I am no expert but from what I can tell, possible reasons might be:<br />1)the triangular metal piece that goes down towards the prop is broken in half.<br /><br />2)the prop is pretty dinged up. The ends of each blade is bent way back.<br /><br />Other than that, the steering cable and such are working properly.<br /><br />Any suggestions???

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Boat won't turn to port????

you say that the outdrive turns when not moving, and you can turn left when moving slowly. so i think the prop could be a problem. i'd get a new one if it's as bad as it sounds. i'd also check the trim tab (small verticle plate that hangs below your cavitation plate). may be turned way over to one side. good luck-

 

[jcac27]

Re: Boat won't turn to port????

Thats what its called...Trim tab. Yeah thats broken in half. It is on a slight angle toward the port side.<br /><br />I think(and hope) its the prop. Any other suggestions, thoughts?<br /><br />Thanks a lot,<br /><br />James

 

[mattttt25]

Re: Boat won't turn to port????

not sure, but a combination of your prop and trim tab is probably doing it. probably need to replace both. for the tab, start off by setting it to point straight back. good luck-

 

[KenOhki]

Re: Boat won't turn to port????

although the prop is messed up, I dont think that is your problem. remove or lift the tab out of the water and test it like that. If you see something that is broken, that is a good place to start.<br /><br /> I do not beleive its the prop, If it was, it wouldnt turn starbord either under the conditions that it dosent turn to port.<br /><br />Just my thoughts. Good Luck