Robalo Cayman 226 - Poor Maneuverability In Reverse

[PontiacHO]

As the title suggests I’m having control issues while backing into my slip. This boat doesn’t react in reverse. Gets me in trouble negotiating the current and/or wind. Is the general consensus that a 4 blade prop enhances low speed maneuverability and especially in reverse?

[KMac]

As the title suggests I’m having control issues while backing into my slip. This boat doesn’t react in reverse. Gets me in trouble negotiating the current and/or wind. Is the general consensus that a 4 blade prop enhances low speed maneuverability and especially in reverse?

It did for me when I had an F150 on my 21' Hydra Sport.. I was in the same situation in windy conditions.. It also helped me getting out of the hole faster for tubing, etc.. Maneuvering was greatly impacted for the better. I did give up some top end speed (~ 1-1.5 mph) but not any fuel efficiency..

By the way, welcome to BoB!!!

[PontiacHO]

So motor trimmed down then?

[KMac]

So motor trimmed down then?

Yes.. That gives you the most control..

[TomS]

Yes.. That gives you the most control..

A couple captains here told me to trim up slightly when backing, otherwise the backthrust hits more of the transom instead of going beneath the keel. Seems to work for my Axopar anyway. YMMV

[KMac]

A couple captains here told me to trim up slightly when backing, otherwise the backthrust hits more of the transom instead of going beneath the keel. Seems to work for my Axopar anyway. YMMV

I was told that too when I went to 4 blade but for me and the boat I had at the time, trimming it down seemed to give me better steering control. He’ll have to play with it and see what works for him best.

Could it be the shape of the hull??? Dead rise???

[Parker Yacht]

As the title suggests I’m having control issues while backing into my slip. This boat doesn’t react in reverse. Gets me in trouble negotiating the current and/or wind. Is the general consensus that a 4 blade prop enhances low speed maneuverability and especially in reverse?

First thing is a little up trim is good, just be sure the prop doesn't get air in it.
Also, how many people are in the bow?
Secondly, when reversing, the bow follows the stern.
So, back INTO the current or wind and at the last minute "turn" the stern into the slip.
It the current and wind is opposing, use the one that is the strongest.
Not the safest example.

[ken2]

Normally a good 4 blade will do better in reverse, but occasionally not.
It has more surface area, so when you kick it into gear, forward or reverse, you have more traction.
I've been on some boats with small diameter 3 blades where you really have to rev the motor up to get any reaction out of them.

Definitely experiment with trim though, It can make a big difference.

[PontiacHO]

Thanks Ken. Currently I have a Yamaha 200 horsepower 4 cylinder with aYamaha 17M x 14 1/4 prop. What would you recommend?

[MercuryMan200]

Some good info here

https://youtu.be/Mx0LEAWsE_k

[ken2]

I'd probably start with Powertech PTZ4's
The Mercury Enertia is a 3 blade but has larger blades, and good reverse as well. i have those for testing, they might be a fun set to try as well.

[PontiacHO]

Thanks Ken. I’m attempting to dock the boat bow first for a few days. If this becomes a clown show (again) I’ll call to get that 4 blade coming?

[ken2]

good luck ! just try not to end up on a youtube video

[KMac]

good luck ! just try not to end up on a youtube video

[DaleH]

If OB bracket ... trim it up, push that propwash UNDER the hull, not AGAINST it ...