Broken Fin under prop

[Kesh]

Our boat was being put on ground supports at the repair yard for some hull retouching (nicks, scratches, etc) and also for installing new letters and logo. The supports are not too high, and when the forklift put the boat down, the engine lower unit bumped against the ground. The result was a broken piece of metal, at the tip of the fin that is under the prop. The mechanic told me that they will take the lower unit for repair (filling soldering). My question is: is that fin normally a little bit "curved" or it is the result of the impact?? I notice that it is a little bit curved to the left when you are looking the propeller in front of you. The outboard is an Evinrude 225HP, 1994.

 

[Hooty]

Re: Broken Fin under prop

No sir, it's not curved.<br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty

 

[Kesh]

Re: Broken Fin under prop

OMG..... is this bad???? is it "repairable" or my mechanic is trying to fool me? Should I suspect of any "hidden" major damage?

 

[ob]

Re: Broken Fin under prop

If it is just slightly bent ,it can be straightened.Just bring it to the attention of the repair person.If done carefully ,it shouldn't break anything.<br /><br />Had a lady rear end my 83 60 hp motor while I was waiting at a stoplight once.It pierced her hood like a beer can and bent my skeg about 1/2" to one side.I was able to straighten it with no problems.

 

[Kesh]

Re: Broken Fin under prop

I couldn't stop today by the Marina, so I dont know if they already fixed. If not, I will take some pics to post and get your opinion. Other question: I would like to go fishing on saturday. If the fin is not repaired before then, does it (the little bit curved and a bite of 1 inch at the tip) represent any problem to operate the boat ?

 

[ob]

Re: Broken Fin under prop

Without actually seeing the bend first hand and just going by your description of damage ,I would say its probably fine to run briefly with just a slight bend.I'm hoping the mechanic will have it repaired and straightened when you pick it up.Good luck.

 

[Kesh]

Re: Broken Fin under prop

This is the most useful place in internet for boaters. Thank you all. I will update this post tomorrow once I have more information.

 

[Kesh]

Re: Broken Fin under prop

I went today to the Marina, and the mechanic said the lower fin was repaired and straightened. I didnt see it (was not installed at that moment), but I will take a look tomorrow.