prop and rudder alignment

[Billy H.D.]

i have an 1982 26 chris craft corinthian with a 350 inboard and it is out of the water for some bottom painting. i noticed that the prop is offset to the right of the rudder about 1.5 inches or so. is it supposed to be that way??? the shaft,strut and rudder are not bent. the indention that the strut sits into is offset as well. just doesnt seem right and i never seen it like that on other boats.

 

[1980Coronado]

Re: prop and rudder alignment

I have heard that some manufacturers did this to allow for the prop/drive shaft to be removed without removing the rudder. I just had to replace the drive shaft in my 21' Coronado and had to pull the rudder to get the shaft out. It doesn't take long to pull the rudder, but it's not what I'd call pain free. It takes two people to put it back together . The guy putting the bolts back in the steering link has to have long arms and work blind to get the bolts back in. If my rudder had been offset, it would have been a much easier task.

 

[Billy H.D.]

Re: prop and rudder alignment

thanks,that makes sence...i hope that is what is going on with my boat

 

[1980Coronado]

Re: prop and rudder alignment

thanks,that makes sence...i hope that is what is going on with my boat

I think it can also help offset the torque of the prop to help with steering in the direction of prop rotation. Mine being in-line with no power steering, turns harder to the right (starboard) and turns easier to the left (port), with a RH prop. This happens when up on plane. When going slow the wheel turns easily in both directions. Offsetting the rudder may improve this condition. I'm fairly certain with your description that it was designed this way intentionally.