modify height of stearing connection on Honda

[MinUph]

I have an issue I just can't seem to get a grip on. When I turn my 40 hp Honda full starboard the steering assembly hits the side of the boat. I've asked a dealer if there is any sort of adaptor and he said no. "Poorly designed boat" was his reply. Its a 99 18' Godfrey. I am going to look at it again in the morning and will try to get a pic of the problem if this doesn't make sense. I think there must be a way. I have raised the motor a mounting hole but it isn't enough and can't raise it higher or the motor will over heat. I'm loosing a small amount of steerage that really hasn't affected me much except when docking I like to turn hard starboard to bring the Stern in. I hate when things don't work properly.

 

[The Rooster]

Re: modify height of stearing connection on Honda

Hard to visualize it "Minuph". Sounds like your motor sits in a cutout w/ both sides of the deck enclosing things somewhat. Would some kind of set-back plate for the motor help give additional side clearance ?

 

[MinUph]

Re: modify height of stearing connection on Honda

Yes the deck does enclose the area on both sides of the motor. A setbackplate would have to be pretty big to clear it.

 

[The Rooster]

Re: modify height of stearing connection on Honda

I've seen 12" setback plates, but not sure how practical for your application. They are pricey $200.00- $300.00 +. The Bass and Flats boat guys use them all the time. The only other concern I can think of would be having enough extra slack for the cables and wiring if you set-back 1' or more. Good luck !!!

 

[MinUph]

Re: modify height of stearing connection on Honda

Yea I can't see adding that to the toon. I'm replacing the control cables anyway but not the steering. And I don't want to put that kind of $$ into it.

 

[The Rooster]

Re: modify height of stearing connection on Honda

Hey "Minuph", just to reiterate, I've seen smaller setback plates, 6"-10". Your cutout is probably angled inward instead of forming a perfect "U" shape, thus for every 1"-2" inches of actual setback, you may gain 1/2" + of side clearance. I bet you don't need much to clear the steering ram. The big benefit of the manually adjustable plate is the almost limitless vertical adjustability allowing you to find the sweet spot for your prop. You may find used ones on CL for $50-$100.00. Good luck !!!

 

[MinUph]

Re: modify height of stearing connection on Honda

I'll be looking for one. I did just now and there aren't any. But I will keep looking. Thanks.