Outboard mounting position?

[david ingham]

I would like to ask a question regarding the mounting position of
a 75HP Mariner outboard, I have just got an immaculate 2003 Valiant PT520 which I am
really pleased with but it pulls slightly to the right. By chance I noticed
that the outboard is mounted off centre by about 35mm to the right, is this normal or should I look at repositioning it?

[Polwart]

Originally Posted by david ingham

I would like to ask a question regarding the mounting position of
a 75HP Mariner outboard, I have just got an immaculate 2003 Valiant PT520 which I am
really pleased with but it pulls slightly to the right. By chance I noticed
that the outboard is mounted off centre by about 35mm to the right, is this normal or should I look at repositioning it?

It is not uncommon to mount engines slightly off centre. This balances out the effect of the prop spinning. On a "normal" outboard this is to starboard - how far depends to some extent on the boat and the size of the engine. So I wouldn't move the engine.

There will be a small "tab", like a tiny rudder, just under the antiventilation plate (above the prop). This can be adjusted to correct for the effect you are seeing. It is probably also one of the anodes for the engine.

Its also worth checking that what you think is straight at the wheel is straight at the engine - as its quite common for the steering wheel not to be aligned with anything.

[9D280]

As Pol says, the trim tab is a likely cause.

Might also be worth checking it against another similar engine - if the tab has done it's job in protecting the engine from corrosion, it may have reduced in size to the point it needs re- adjusted (due to the smaller area) or replaced. I had that scenario on the Yam I got with my current boat.

And Welcome to Ribnet!

[david ingham]

Thanks guys for your replies, I have just seen another Valiant with the outboard mounted in exactly the same position so I'm guessing things are OK. I will check and adjust as you recomend.

Dave