Using tiller to raise outboard?

[adamjthompson]

Is it OK to use the tiller handle to raise a small outboard? (i.e. push down on the tiller handle to raise the outboard out of the water).

My tiller snapped off today and I'm wondering if it was my own fault...

 

[Texasmark]

Re: Using tiller to raise outboard?

I used to do it on a 10 hp Scott Atwater.

Mark

 

[ezmobee]

Re: Using tiller to raise outboard?

Is it OK to use the tiller handle to raise a small outboard? (i.e. push down on the tiller handle to raise the outboard out of the water).

My tiller snapped off today and I'm wondering if it was my own fault...

Absolutely not.

 

[southkogs]

Re: Using tiller to raise outboard?

I had a bad habit of doing it on my Eska and my Johnson ... but they do put a handle on the back of the cowling for a reason.

On a little 3, 5 or 10 hp, it's probably not so big a deal ... on a 15, 25 or 40 - probably different.

Welcome aboard, BTW.

 

[adamjthompson]

Re: Using tiller to raise outboard?

Mine is a 6HP. I guess I leaned on the tiller a bit too hard to lift the motor and it snapped off. I guess I won't use the tiller to lift the motor in the future. It was my first fishing trip on the boat, too.

 

[Home Cookin']

Re: Using tiller to raise outboard?

I think you learned your answer the hard way.
The "pot metal" on outboards is notoriously flimsy and prone to breaking off.

You might want to look at whether your tilt "hinges" need lubricating so it doesn't take so much force to tilt; there's no weight to speak of for a motor that size.

 

[DuckHunterJon]

Re: Using tiller to raise outboard?

Nope, shouldn't pivot it up with the tiller handle. At the same time, don't beat yourself up - if that's the worst you do, you're still pretty well off!

 

[adamjthompson]

Re: Using tiller to raise outboard?

Thanks for the help. I am finding this forum to be a very helpful resource for a new boat owner like me.