2000 Merc Opti 150hp steering problem

[jfreida]

I have a 2000 outboard Mercury Optimax 150HP on my boat and it is very hard to turn left. Right hand turns are no problem and the boat goes staight when I let go of the wheel. Just wondering if anyone has any suggestions. Thanks

 

[j_martin]

Re: 2000 Merc Opti 150hp steering problem

I have a 2000 outboard Mercury Optimax 150HP on my boat and it is very hard to turn left. Right hand turns are no problem and the boat goes staight when I let go of the wheel. Just wondering if anyone has any suggestions. Thanks

You're dealing with engine torque fighting your steering.

Don't know what the boat is, or how fast you're going. If it's in the water, a torque tab properly adjusted would help. If the cav plate is too high when running for that, there are torque tamer amendments to the skeg that would help. A well versed prop man could put a slight cup in the skeg that would help.

For me and my bass bote with NFB steering, it's a relatively minor inconvenience.

hope it helps
John

 

[jfreida]

Re: 2000 Merc Opti 150hp steering problem

The motor is on a 19.5' Campion Bowrider. The problem gets worst when you are going faster. Is the torque tab the same as the anode trim tab?

 

[j_martin]

Re: 2000 Merc Opti 150hp steering problem

The motor is on a 19.5' Campion Bowrider. The problem gets worst when you are going faster. Is the torque tab the same as the anode trim tab?

Yes it is.

If there's a tab there (a flat plate is possible) turn it slightly in the direction the boat is pulling. In your case that would be right. Make small adjustments at a time.

If you're riding fully on plane with the engine height adjusted for maximum performance, it's possible that this tab is completely out of the water.

hope it helps
John