1986sn Loss of steering in reverse only

Ever driven an inboard before?

They dont steer well in reverse. Going to the left isnt hard. You wont be able to go sharp to the right. A hard lock right turn will get you to go mostly straight, and maybe start to drift right a little, eventually. (This goes for boats with RH props like our CC's).

   I think his handle says it all.
Sorry Andrew (newguy), someone was going to say it.
It will turn, as long as you want to go left.

Ok thats kinda what i was thinking. I was making sure i wasnt going crazy.

Brian, I picked the handle for a reason! haha

I really enjoy these boats but most of what my parents had growing up were Inboard / outboards. so reverse steering was an option

thanks guys

The rudder only has positive effect when out of gear, so engage reverese only momentary to build a little reverse momentum.

Be patient. Keep forwrd idle speeds slow by similary only giving forward a 20% duty cycle or so. If you are pointed in the approximate direction you need to go, its not a crime to COAST!

When reversing, you can 'kick' the stern in the direction you need it to go by putting the rudder in full lock with a stab of forward, then quickly center the rudder then add stabs of reverse.

Remember at idle it is basically rear-steer. Don't expect the bow to swing around. By the time you see that, the rear is way past where you wanted it, and the novice starts putting wild overcompensating inputs into the wheel and gear.

Like everything in life you just need practice. Great excuse to get more seat time

This boat is older than me. like a mother shes teaching me along the way! haha

newguy1986 wrote: This boat is older than me. like a mother shes teaching me along the way! haha

Jllogan wrote: My boat is one year newer than me and luckily I am in better shape. HA.

Man you guys are killing me and I'm just newly turned 45. Can't imagine what Pete feels like.

8122pbrainard wrote:     I wish I was there to watch you the first time you were at the controls of your bucket!

Actually Pete my 1st bucket was the best,it had a self leveling bucket and a real easy to use joy stick. My last one would have you laughing,it used toggle switches. Looking at the control panel you faced to the right side of the bucket,to go in that direction you would think you move the toggle in the direction you wanted to go. But no that would be too easy. All 4 of them in the garage were the same. They definiately bought them for price.