Answers to this question probably academic (ask a foolish....). When maneuvering in tight spots like in and out of a slip for instance, with an outboard is it better to steer with the motor and let the rudder swing free or center the motor and steer with the rudder? We have a 4hp Nissan on our 216. Just wondering
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Maneuver with Both
I used to use the rudder wherever I could, but then used the motor when necessary for added control.
I used to use the rudder wherever I could, but then used the motor when necessary for added control.
Backing had more control
Unless you have headway, backing up is easier than going forward and affords more control because the engine pulls instead of pushes and there is less wind effect. To back away from a dock, turn both the motor and tiller the way you want to go. When you are ready to turn around, make sure the bow goes through the eye of the wind before going forward so the wind doesn't blow the bow back down. Once you pick up speed, use the tiller only.
Unless you have headway, backing up is easier than going forward and affords more control because the engine pulls instead of pushes and there is less wind effect. To back away from a dock, turn both the motor and tiller the way you want to go. When you are ready to turn around, make sure the bow goes through the eye of the wind before going forward so the wind doesn't blow the bow back down. Once you pick up speed, use the tiller only.
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