Steering Pull and Prop

[dwcooze]

My boat has been running well all year.
The last two times I have noticed a couple changes. Not sure if they are related or a compound problem.

1. Higher RMP
2. Less top end speed. [Previously 40mph now only 30-35mph]
3. Strong pull to right side. Pull increases with speed increase. With this I have to counter steer to run straight. If I let the steering wheel go free it pulls to the right quiet quickly.

I have noticed my skeg is bent a little towards the left.

I'm wondering if it is a spun prop. Would that effect the steering?
Could the bend in the skeg cause that much steering pull?

Again, these are new issues.

1991 INVADER V171 17FT 2.5 Merc.

 

[Jlawsen]

Re: Steering Pull and Prop

The answer about the skeg is yes to some extent it can affect steering but I have a funny feeling more than the skeg got bent when you hit whatever it was you hit. I think pulling the prop and having it checked is your first step.