I am at the later stages of purchasing a 2003 Hunter 356. With a Yanmar 27HP motor and a MAX prop. I find at higher rpms (2500+) the boat wants to veer to the port when motoring only. More so then what would seem normal prop walk (or prop wash?). Is this normal and if not any idea as to what might cause this?
Significant port helm while motoring
- Thread starter tigue
- Start date
Fouled prop? Take it out just under sail and see if you experience a similar pull. If it does then it is a rudder/keel issue but if it does not it is an engine/drive train issue. Make sure the prop is clean, not bent and appropiate for the boat. Some engine RPM restrictions due to fuel issues, restricted exhaust or filters may create conditions which may cause a pull. Perhaps a talk with the owner might shed some light on if this is a new condition or has been happening for some time. Did it start after the OEM prop was replaced? Some history is necessary to facilitate diagnosis on the problem and it is definitely a problem. Under power any pull at the wheel should be unnoticeable.
Left handed or right handed prop?
My guess without knowing more is that it's over propped and too much pitch. The prop is pushing waterside ways underneath the boat and you don't see it until you hit hull speed and the prop is trying to push more water.
My guess without knowing more is that it's over propped and too much pitch. The prop is pushing waterside ways underneath the boat and you don't see it until you hit hull speed and the prop is trying to push more water.
My strut was bent towards port and I experienced a pull to starboard. Replaced strut, no more pull. Perhaps visually check alignment of shaft with boat in the water?
An answer over on cruisersforum noted it was an inherent issue with this particular boat and sent him here for the skinny on this H356.
Can you guys please steer this new gentleman to the owner's section so he can read some more?
Can you guys please steer this new gentleman to the owner's section so he can read some more?
Er, I think the strut is slightly leaning to port is to enable removal of the shaft without dropping the rudder. I have removed my shaft for servicing after hitting stuff twice now and I was very happy to be able to remove the shaft without the rudder.