manual tilt latch setting when running

[srimes]

I just bought a 14' flat bottom with a 25 horse johnson, console steering, manual tilt. This is my first boat like this (last one had power tilt+trim). I think the previous owner always latched it in the down position when running. Is this proper? Will it release if I hit a stump or log? Is it OK or better to run with it unlatched and only latch it for reverse? Thanks.

 

[Sea Rider]

Re: manual tilt latch setting when running

Will depend on the type of boating that you do, if latched and hit a big submerged heavy object probably will ruin engine tail or boat transom, if unlatched engine will rise abruptly with minor damage, will depend entirely on you speed and object you just hit, sometimes when having it unlatched and you forgot about it, when accelerationg in reverse you can be scared seeing the engine rise without reason. Always know well the area you'll be boating and never do it close to shore.

Happy Boating

 

[5150abf]

Re: manual tilt latch setting when running

I never ever latch mine, no reason to, going forward the force of the prop holds the engine down and if you are unfotunate to hit something it pops right up saving some damage.

I don't even latch it in reverse, you can't get alot of power to it but I have never had a problem.

 

[srimes]

Re: manual tilt latch setting when running

thanks.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: manual tilt latch setting when running

I leave them not latched, too.

 

[Mel Taylor]

Re: manual tilt latch setting when running

Virtually all my boating is done in lakes with widely fluctuating water levels and lots of underwater hoodoos as well as floating objects of various kinds. I never latch mine down.

 

[tjandrews]

Re: manual tilt latch setting when running

Two of my outboards have latches tied to the shift linkage. When in reverse, they latch. When not, they unlatch. Seemed like a good guide to me, so I do it that way with the one that I have with a manual latch - when I think about it.

 

[Davis 103]

Re: manual tilt latch setting when running

A friend of mine and I use to debate this issue all the time, we were both fishing guides on lake Livingston, Toledo Bend and Sam Rayburn at the time, all of these lakes are basicly flooded forest with stumps just below the water line.
I always ran with my motor latched in whatever trim position I was in. he did not. on one occasion he hit a stup, log or whatever was under the waterline without his motor latched down, he was traveling about 35-40 MPH, the motor kicker up and brooke free from the transom and actualy landed just behind him on the rear platform. massive damage to the boat and motor.
my advice is BE CAREFUL while running unlatched, it's much easier to replace a lower unit than a life.