What does this do?

[djandjas]

Unfortunately my digital cam bit the dust or I would take a photo. On my 1972 evinrude 125 (Model #125283R) there is a small adjustable arm above the prop, looks like an upsidedown fin. It has a 3/8 nut holding it in and is marked from 0 to 6. What exactly does this do?? <br /><br />Also does anyone have a pic of the motor? I have been told the bottom fin is damaged and needs to be extended and re-shaped. It would be great to get a photo of an undamaged one so I could compare.<br /><br />Cheers and thanks in advance<br /> Jas

 

[Bear]

Re: What does this do?

That is the trim tab. You adjust it for neutral steering.<br />I have no '72 picture but a '71:<br /> 1971 125HP Evinrude <br /><br />Hope it helps.<br />

 

[djandjas]

Re: What does this do?

Thanks very much bear.<br /><br />The bottom fin in that photo looks exactly the same as the bottom fin on mine.<br /><br />In which case it is not damaged at all. Is there any benifit in extending and reshaping the bottom fin or are the marine ppl trying to take me for a ride?

 

[Bear]

Re: What does this do?

Yes, I noticed that the skeg (lower unit fin) was a bit shorter than they usual are.<br /><br />Don't do anything, just give the mechanic the money <br /><br />You'll be fine as it is. If it was longer and you broke it of you might not notice any difference. If it was bent you'll notice the boat will turn. No neutral steering anymore. In that case you will have to fix it. Not now.

 

[noclaim]

Re: What does this do?

This is the trim tab. If the boat pulls to the right (starboard) when you carefully loosen your grip on the steering wheel then you need to move the tab to the right and if it pulls to the left (port), move the tab to the left. You may need to try several settings to get it right at the rpm and trim you most commonly use. The fin below the prop is the skeg and while it protects the prop it also effects the steering if too much of it is broken off.

 

[Forktail]

Re: What does this do?

On many outboards the trim tab also acts as an anode to help reduce electrolysis.

 

[janichol]

Re: What does this do?

You might want to compare the skeg from your motor to a new one. I had to replace my lower unit and the difference was amazing. I didn't realize how much had worn off. I have to dredge my way through low spots often, so I get a SkegGuard (stainless steel, goes over the skeg). I haven't noticed any steering difference though.

 

[Neptune]

Re: What does this do?

Hi Jas,<br /><br />If the bottom of the skeg is lower than the blades of the largest diameter prop you use it is still servicable.

 

[djandjas]

Re: What does this do?

Hmmm, Well I checked it and the lowest part of the skeg is just lower than the lowest point of the prop. But only by 10mm or so

 

[rudeafrican]

Re: What does this do?

Well then you are OK. Spend the money on a stainless steel skeg guard, really worth it.