boat steering

[cindy]

i have a problem with the steering on my boat. its a 94 johnston . it wants to go to the right when im trolling. i have gone up under the fin an taken the plate an adjusted it . tried several ways but it still wants to go to the right. is there another way of adjusting it ?

 

[12Footer]

Re: boat steering

Adjusting the tab is the only adjustment,Cindy. So check the prop and prop shaft for a bent or out-of-ballance condition. You can also apply more tension to the helm,by tightening the tensioner nut (on most helms, or at the pivot tube at the engine). But then, it'll be harder to steer at all times.

 

[suzukidave]

Re: boat steering

This is common problem and often hard to fix. Does it do it when you hold the wheel steady? <br /><br />If no, I'd vote for tightening the steering at the motor a little if it only does it when you are trolling. <br /><br />If yes, then it may be a weight distribution problem you can fix by moving gas tanks or battery to the port side, or else maybe there is something on your hull that might be acting as a rudder (transducer hanging down below the transom, bent skeg on the o/b)?