Steering

[88 Capri 1950]

I have an 88 Capri 1950 with a GM5.0 and OMC outdrive. I had it out today for the first time since buying it and it ran great. I did notice that when at low speed the bow would seem to walk to the right, then left then back again pretty much staying on the heading I was going for. I have noticed this on a friends pontoon, but not as bad as with mine. Is this normal, and if not what could cause it?

 

[Art Bernard]

Re: Steering

I'm not an I/O guy, but does your outdrive have a trim tab? Perhaps that needs adjustment.

Art

 

[Lyle29464]

Re: Steering

sounds normal. If the unit has slack it could be a safety problem. Just take a hold of the outdrive and see how much you can move it side to side with out moving the steering wheel. If that is more than a couple of inches look inside the motor box at the steering mechanism while someone else is moving the drive. You should be able to see where the slack is.

 

[cr2k]

Re: Steering

V hull I/Os do this.

 

[88 Capri 1950]

Re: Steering

Thanks for the replys. I will have to check the play. I don't think the trim tab needs adjustment since it doesn't pull in one direction only, it drifts back and forth. If I find the problem I will post it on here.

 

[Lyle29464]

Re: Steering

set the tab for cruise speed. Below that it is too small to do much.

 

[88 Capri 1950]

Re: Steering

I checked for play in the steering today, didn't find much. I guess it is something I will have to get used to, then again, this is my first boat. I only have experience with a friend's boat.