Reverse problem

[Andrew Miller]

I currently own a 1974 Catalina 27, it has a 1975 Johnson outboard long shaft motor with a 3 blade, 10" prop and a pitch of 5. Currently the boat has no problems going forward, the problem I have is it will not back up. I have asked many people who have said I need a higher pitched prop, a lower pitched prop and even been informed there is nothing I can do but replace the motor. The 1st question I have is what prop should this motor have and 2nd what can I do about the reverse problem without purchasing a new motor.

 

[Guest]

can't back up?

Andrew, when you say the boat won't back up do you mean you can't control it or that it won't move? Can you provide move details?

 

[Andrew Miller]

More information

can't back up is defined by not being able to back out of my slip using the motor. I have to "walk it out." If I depended on the motor the boat would never leave the slip. The prop is rotating. When coming into the slip and I put it in reverse to slow it down it has no effect.

 

[LaDonna Bubak - Catalina Owners]

I feel your pain

I recently replaced my ucky old motor with a heavenly Honda 4 stroke with cockpit controls. It's like a new boat! But since you don't want to repower (can't blame you - OUCH! $$$), I don't really know how to help you. My old motor wouldn't back me up either. It wouldn't lock down & would kick up every time I put it in reverse. It was basically useless for reverse. Makes certain maneuvers a little adreline filled!Anyway, enough rambling. I suppose changing the prop couldn't hurt and would be much cheaper than a new motor. Try talking to a prop shop. Outboards may not be their forte but they might have a good idea of what pitch the prop should be. LaDonna

 

[R.W.Landau]

Andrew

I do not know your experience level so if this is insultiog, it was't meant to be. I am just stating facts.If the hull is moving forward with any speed, it will be very hard to stop the boat by putting it in reverse. Try your maneuvers at a slower speed. You may want to get the feel of it in a less congested area.

 

[R.W.Landau]

Andrew, sorry

I did not read your second statment before write my last response. It sounds like one of two things.1. The shifter is not engaging reverse. 2. There is a bad yoke or gear in the lower unit.Have you done anything to the motor? Sometimes when dropping the lower unit to change an impeller the shift mechdoes not align properly is one thing I can think of.r.w.landau

 

[Kevin l. Woody]

Out board problems.

Hello Andrew:I’m afraid I’m going to have to refer you to either the group or out board tech shop. I have very little knowledge of an out board and its functions. Good look. Kevin,