will not go in a straight line

[larson 175]

I have a 1988 larson DC 175 I/O. 130hp Mercruiser. The boat is very hard to hold in a straight line. It turns to the left. I have adjusted the trim tab as far left as I can, and it still turns to the left. It does not make a difference if I trim in or out. The boat appeares to go through the water side ways. Any help would be appreciated.

 

[steelespike]

Re: will not go in a straight line

You may have a problem with your hull.With it on the trailer look along the bottom for any distortion should be smooth with no hooks or bulges.Look carefully where rollers or bunks fit the boat.

 

[6MISFITZ]

Re: will not go in a straight line

If the hull is ok I am guessing that it is something out of adjustment in the steering.<br /><br />It is normal for there to be some torque pulling on the steering from the propeller turning. For example if the prop turns to the right(clockwise) in forward, this pushes the stern to the right and the bow to the left. The trim tab should only need to be SLIGHTLY angled to correct this pull. <br />My 3.0L omc tab is angled one degree ONLY off center. My neighbour's 4.3L Alpha is dead on centre. Both our props turn clockwise for forward. <br /><br />You say the tab is as far left as it will go! Does that mean the point is to the left or the tail is left meaning the point is facing right?<br /><br />Do you have hydraulic steering or cable steering?<br />Is the reservoir full or the cable/rack and pinion connected ?<br /><br />Can the steering wheel be turned from full lock to lock without binding?

 

[larson 175]

Re: will not go in a straight line

I do not have power steering, cable steering. The steering does not bind. The point of the trim tab is to the left, the tail of the tab is to the right. I do have a roller trailer. I will check for bulges on the hull this weekend. Is it possible that the outdrive is miss aligned to one side or the other. This is my first boat of my owne, and I thank you for your help, steelespike, and Mike.

 

[DJ]

Re: will not go in a straight line

larson,<br /><br />The trailing edge of the tab needs to be in the direction of the pull. I think you have it going the wrong way.

 

[larson 175]

Re: will not go in a straight line

Thanks djohns19, I feel like a real idiot.And the look on my wifes face was priceless. I hope that does the trick.

 

[Hooty]

Re: will not go in a straight line

djohns 19 iz gonna have to explain that to me.<br /><br />c/6<br /><br />Hooty