pull to starboard

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getakey

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I just had some major work done on my boat - replace shafts and props - which is another story, but after work complete boat pulls to starboard at cruise speed. At idle, boat tracks straight with rudder position straight.

Any thoughts on probable causes? I was thinking perhaps one trim tab wasn't working although the boat seemed to trim fine. I do not have trim tab indicator gauges so will have to check operation when back on the boat.
 
Must verify Rudders are really straight. Forget what auto pilot tells u... U have to see it ...
Some boats have a slight rudder offset... might want to post ur boat info.

Rob
 
boat is cruisers 4450, dual diesel. No auto-pilot, was going by rudder indicator gauge and steering wheel postion

have had the boat 12 years and up until recent work, this was not an issue
 
Yes verify the rudder also use a photo tach to verify the RPMs are equal then if the tables are both working you will need to retest the props.
 
thanks- never heard of photo tach, but just googled it

retest props?
 
yes go to propscan shop to verify they are equal.
 
quote:
Originally posted by pdecat

yes go to propscan shop to verify they are equal.

Click to expand...


They are brand new - hope the shop got them right.
Its not a huge pull, so don't want to haul the boat out for this.
 
Rudders are not a factor. RPM indication is, make sure they are right. Props could be a problem (not matching). Rudders should be toeded in or out, but you should be able to let go of the wheel and go straight with no problem.
 
Learned two things from this thread.

I was thinking the last haul out that my rudders looked a little toed in but figured it was my imagination or just the angle. I was going to bring a tape measurer on my next haul. Sounds like something to be expected.

I was thinking of getting a hand held tach. Had not heard of laser photo TACHS. Got on Amazon and the first one I looked at had over 100 positive reviews. Many using them in diesel marine soiI ordered it. I will let you know if the $20 bucks is worth it.
 
Rudders will flutter (vibrate) if they not one way or the other. Toe them in and in causes the stern to rise, out, stern down bow up.
 
quote:
Originally posted by getakey

I just had some major work done on my boat - replace shafts and props - which is another story, but after work complete boat pulls to starboard at cruise speed. At idle, boat tracks straight with rudder position straight.

Any thoughts on probable causes? I was thinking perhaps one trim tab wasn't working although the boat seemed to trim fine. I do not have trim tab indicator gauges so will have to check operation when back on the boat.

Click to expand...

I'm assuming you paid good money to have tis work done so why are you trying to fix a problem with it?

Contact the company that did the work, tell them what the problem is and ask them to fix it.
 
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