Proper outboard rigging?

Spinner1

Cadet
Joined
Jun 19, 2004
Messages
15
First post here, this is a great site. I've learned a lot from reading old posts already. Picking up my Alumacraft tomorrow with a brand new Yamaha 60HP four stroke. What are some key signs of a good install? My last install was less than professional. I did not notice the wiring was very sloppy in time to get it corrected. This was a major purchase for me and I want it right. Thanks
 

rickdb1boat

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Jan 23, 2002
Messages
11,195
Re: Proper outboard rigging?

Hi Spinner<br /><br />As you said, clean wiring is a good sign. Make sure the motor is mounted at the correct height(Cavitation plate even with the bottom of the hull). Holes for the motor mounting should be sealed, even though it's an Aluminum boat. Make sure the controls operate smoothly, with no sharp bends in the cables. And lastly, make sure they explain their expectation of break-in procedure and an explaination of what you need to do, as far as service is concerned. Make sure they have the proper pitched prop for your boat, with the understanding that you can return it if it does not perform as expected(RPM wise). Take your time and look around as long as you want to make sure it's right. Ask any questions that you may need answered at this time. I always ask myself, what if this or that happens. After all, It's your money! Other than that, I can't think of anything else off hand, except enjoy the new set-up...
 

Spinner1

Cadet
Joined
Jun 19, 2004
Messages
15
Re: Proper outboard rigging?

Thanks Rick,<br /><br />I have been boating and doing most of my own maintenance for 10 years and wasn't aware how to tell if the motor mounting height was correct. I'll probably just solder in my wiring myself later. I don't expect them to do that for the price. But I hate those little butt crimp connectors. Not a good long term technique in my opinion.
 

tony_cliffy

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Mar 19, 2003
Messages
182
Re: Proper outboard rigging?

Just to add to Rickdb1boat (and it is just a repeat of the advice I received here) - ask them what RPM/speed you are going to turn with this combination and what RPM/speed you should turn. They should know this if they gave any consideration to your prop sizing. It also puts it squarely in their court if you experience something other than this. You also need to figure out the engine WOT RPM from the manufacturer to make sure your dealer is giving you the right info. If not you'll be like me - 8 months and 3 props later and I'm still not at the right RPM's. I failed to get this established with my dealer and I feel it is too late to hassle him about it.
 

Spinner1

Cadet
Joined
Jun 19, 2004
Messages
15
Re: Proper outboard rigging?

Thanks Tony,<br /><br />I got that one covered up front. They said we'll tweak the prop until it's right. Good thing too, because they haven't seen how big Uncle Bill is yet :) <br /><br />Everytime he rides with me, he says "you just ain't got enough motor on this boat". Every else of normal size just laughs about that comment when they ride with me.
 

Hooty

Rear Admiral
Joined
Oct 2, 2001
Messages
4,496
Re: Proper outboard rigging?

Just for grins and "stuff", look under the dash and see what kind of wiring job they did. Maybe some other places where you normally can't see.<br /><br />c/6<br />Hooty
 
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