Random thoughts about steering under power:
I've always routinely steered with rudder only and the rudder doesn't hit
the prop unless the rudder is retracted. That's on an early P14 with a
Seagull or electric OB.
Occasionally, in tight quarters, I will use both tillers. If I turn motor
alone, I'm likely to chop the rudder.
The problem is that we are usually moving slowly when we want to turn
sharply, in a marina for instance, and then the rudder is less responsive.
A short burst of power may allow a sharper turn with rudder only. I'll
experiment with that in open water before I try it in tight quarters.
You can also stall the rudder if you turn it too quickly or too far. I try
to move it smoothly and don't exceed 45 degrees. To swing the stern to
starboard, you have to deflect an equal weight of water to port. If the
rudder is moved too far or too fast it acts as a brake instead of a water
deflector.
Harry
P14 #234, Manatee
Mountain View, CA
>HI Rye,
>I usually try to steer with the rudder only while under power as well. It
>seems to me though, that if I have to make a tighter turn that turning both
>the motor and the rudder seems to make that happen.
>The biggest problem I've had with rudder only turning is cranking it in to
>the propeller. At this point, (now that the rudder looks like it's been
>shark-bit) I think I have a possible solution...when I get the splintered
>remains cut out of the rudder, I'll actually have a clearance for the
>motor! Seriously though, if you or anyone else has any ideas on rudder
>clearance pertaining to the propeller, I'd like to hear it. I know about
>the earlier messages from folks saying there are guards you can buy and
>what-not, but at this stage, it may be better for me to tough it out with a
>home-made (read cheap) solution. Mama, is expressing concern over my
>willingness to open the wallet to keep me boat happy.
>
>See ya!
>
>Bruce