difficult turning

[KJM]

is it normal for a boat to turn one way much easier then the other way? had mine out this afternoon to check on recent timing and stalling issues, thankfully that all seems ok now, but i noticed that she seems much easier to turn to port then to starboard. starboard is a two handed task until she starts to make the turn then it gets easier but never as easy as port. i thought i heard one time this has something to do with torque from the way the prop is spinning?

 

[Alumarine]

Does changing the motor trim angle make a difference?
It could also be your trim tab on the drive needs adjusting.

 

[alldodge]

is it normal for a boat to turn one way much easier then the other way?

No, if you have power steering (guessing you probably do)

Yes, if you do not have power steering

 

[KJM]

you guessed it, no power steering. so in my case that's normal?

 

[alldodge]

you guessed it, no power steering. so in my case that's normal?

Ok, then you can offset the "torque steer" (that's the term) by adjusting the trim anode, one side or the other.

 

[harringtondav]

Ok, then you can offset the "torque steer" (that's the term) by adjusting the trim anode, one side or the other.

Yes. Boring back story here. Merc drive props rotate CW. So besides providing thrust, they want to walk the outdrive a little port. So port turns can take less effort than starboard. Start by moving the steering trim tab a little to port. This will direct some of your prop wash port, forcing the back of your out drive starboard and cancelling out the bias.

 

[KJM]

thanks for the info, i'll try that tomorrow