twin outboards: counter or no counter

Drowned Rat

Captain
Joined
Jan 20, 2004
Messages
3,070
okstate, There are usually no discernable torque issues when operating in forward on flat water. And yes, if you did notice a slight pull to one side or the other, the trim tabs would most likely solve the problem. However, you will notice a marked increase of control when operating in reverse with the counter rotating props. Also, depending on the size of the boat and your driving style, twin standard rotating props can cause the boat to roll to one side when you un-weight the hull, such as when coming off the crest of a wave too fast. Counter rotating props will eliminate this problem. Given the choice I would always go with the counter props. Good luck.
 

cvinroot

Seaman Apprentice
Joined
Nov 5, 2004
Messages
39
Re: twin outboards: counter or no counter

It'a not worth worrying about counter rotation unless you're on a very large boat or a ship. I've conned destroyers where it's important and 65' power boats where it makes some difference but not much. It's something you get used to, where the stern "walks" one way and not the other at low speeds. When you're going ahead on one and back on the other, you won't notice it on an outboard boat. Twins are great, I've got two 45hp Hondas on a 22Ft boat and I can make it do almost anything at low speeds (except catch fishies.... :) ). The little engine trim tabs help the boat go straight when both are going ahead slow or back slow. At low speed torque is negligible, at high speed, you're going too fast to notice anything but the wind in your hair (if you have that luxury) or the bugs in your teeth ... Keep the front windows shut and you won't have the problem with bugs. :eek:
 

cowboyup

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 5, 2004
Messages
155
twin outboards: counter or no counter

Are their any problems associated with using two standard rotation outboards instead of one counter and one standard. Instinctively, I think that the counter rotation would cancel the torque of the standard, allowing a straiter course. If two standard (or counters) were used instead, couldn't the torque be overcome by adjusting the gearcase trim tabs?
 
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