Steering- hard to port

[fpj70147]

Hello Everyone
I've seen on some posts here and on other websites that steering to starboard is easy, to port can be difficult, because of the prop torque. My 1986 20' Osprey is the same. Is there any way to minimize this? My prior boat had power steering so this wasn't a problem.
Great website; very helpful.
Thanks

[reeldrag]

Hello FP,
There should be a small "rudder" directly above your prop which is adjustable. By rotating the rudder it helps reduce the torque and helps make the boat drive strait. You may find a round disc only directly above the prop (smaller thyan a hockey puck, tilt the motor and look closely) which can be switched out with one that has a "rudder". Kinda like a front end alignment on your vehicle. As I recall if the boat pull right, rotate the rudder left.

[seabob4]

Reeldrag is correct, that little "rudder" is called a torque tab.  With a single engine and standard rotary/rack and pinion steering, it should be set at about 1:00.

[flkeysaqua]

Sorry for stealing this post for a second but Bob if I had to turn my torque tab past one say 2ish is there something to be concerned about?

[seabob4]

Sorry for stealing this post for a second but Bob if I had to turn my torque tab past one say 2ish is there something to be concerned about?

I'd say if the 1:00 position still produces some torque steering, give it a whirl!

It's not going to hurt anything, just counter-acting the natural thrust/force to starboard...

[fpj70147]

Thanks everyone- good advice.