Did I point better with the motor down?

[Jim P]

I have always been quick to tilt the 50hp outboard up as soon as the sails go up. But I could swear that I pointed considerably better into a 15 knot breeze and strong flood tide (in Raccoon Straits yesterday) with the motor down, in spite of increased drag.Similar experiences? Is it the increased control surface and the reason the IDA replacement rudders are supposed to help. I was almost happy with the way she pointed!

 

[Night Sailor]

I think so

I've never thought to measure it exactlly, but I too believe the control is noticeably better with the motor down, and apparently has very litte effect on the speed of the boat when the prop is free to turn in neutral. When I get my boat back in the water next week I'll delibertely test the speed via FPS to record the difference on several points of sail, with motor up, motor down in neutral, then motor down wit prop locked in gear. I always leave it down in close situations of narrow passes with fast currents or high wave action crossing bars or rips. One, it gives better control; two, some say the steering is easier, though it makes no difference on my boat; three, it saves precious seconds in the event of a need to use the motor for maneuvering out of harms way in the event of keel or rudder damage or kickup.

 

[JP]

phew, thanks

Hey, thanks night sailor. I thought I would get the record for most views without a response. Let me know what you find out.

 

[Steve Paul]

Nothing wrong with you JP

Nothing wrong with you or your post, most of us just didn't know how to respond since a lot of us don't drive the 26X.Steve P.

 

[Greg Pecaut]

Pointing

With the motor up you have more weight aft. More of the motor's weight more aft. You will point better when you move weight forward. And will go faster down wind when you move weight aft.