1978 85 hp Pulls to the right

deac1234

Seaman
Joined
Apr 25, 2010
Messages
67
Hi,

My 1978 Johnson 85 hp has a significant pull to the right. Is there any way to adjust for this???

Kerry
 

emdsapmgr

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Dec 9, 2005
Messages
11,551
Re: 1978 85 hp Pulls to the right

Engine torque steer is a common problem on higher hp engines with cable type steering. Torque steer is caused by the rotation of the prop. While you can't eliminate it, there are some things you can do to mask it's effect. You may be able to adjust the fin under the antiventilation plate. (just above the prop.) Loosening that bolt and adjusting the fin to the right or left may mask some of the torque steer. You can also add a torque tab, called a Torque Tamer. It is a permanent tab, added to the bottom of the skeg to reduce torque steer. If you still have concerns, you can probably change out the steering helm gear with a "no feedback" gear. The ultimate would be to go a hydraulic steering system.
 

5150abf

Vice Admiral
Joined
Aug 12, 2007
Messages
5,808
Re: 1978 85 hp Pulls to the right

move the fin above the prop to the left a couple slots and that should get it, this is a trail and error kind of a deal so it may take a couple tries to get it just right.
 

ezeke

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Sep 19, 2003
Messages
12,532
Re: 1978 85 hp Pulls to the right

If the boat pulls to the right, move the back of the trim tab to the right.

The trim tab deflects the water being thrown at it by the propeller.
 

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