How important is that fin??

[H20Rat]

Re: How important is that fin??

I notice from the photo you posted that you're missing the gearcase trim tab. It's supposed to mount above the prop on that circular area. While not essential, without it I bet you're boat is hard to turn to port when underway.

And yes, enough of the skeg is gone that it would be a good idea to repair it.

Not all I/O's have the trim tab. The vast majority I've seen do not have it (at least on merc alpha/bravo drives) With power steering, the tab isn't really needed anymore and is just extra drag.

 

[haulnazz15]

Re: How important is that fin??

Get the skeg weld-repaired at a prop shop or weld shop. Usually $100 and it might save a several-hundred dollar prop. The drive may or may not have a trim tab on the drive, most of the pre-alpha drives and those w/o power steering had the trim tab above the prop to counter the prop torque. It looks as though you had a "whale tail" on the drive at some point, too, as there are several holes drilled on the cavitation plate. A decent weld repaired skeg is far better than any bolt-on job.

 

[metriccrescentwrench]

Re: How important is that fin??

With power steering, the tab isn't really needed anymore and is just extra drag.

:redface: Yeah, that makes sense. I wasn't thinking about the possibility that the OP had power steering.

 

[Jlawsen]

Re: How important is that fin??

I would disagree entirely on the statement that a welded skeg is a sign of an inexperienced shop. It's very common practice. They are designed to break.
I'm not looking to start any major debate, it's just like everything that isn't black and white, lots of opinions. So I will just leave it as everyone is entitled to their opinion.

Absolutely in agreement about inspection of them regularly as part of your maintenance program.

I understand what you're saying. The problem is that they are cast aluminum and anyone that knows welding understands that the weld will never be as strong as the original casting. Welding cast aluminum is not something the average boat shop welder should tackle unless they are very experienced with TIG welding. If a guy whips out a spool gun and starts going at it you're in for trouble down the road.