I should have named my 20 "Zig-Zag" ! I am having a problem in keeping the boat in a straight line. I am canal based so cannot exceed the 4 mph limit and a quick "power-up" when nobody is about shows that the problem exists in excess of the speed limit. Has anyone got any suggestions as to how I can steer in a continuous straight line. The power source is a Honda 7.5 Bob
are you new to boating? may simply be that you are "over correcting" your steering,before you start fixing it get somebody with a bit of experience to sail her, if its just your technique that needs tweaking its going to be a whole lot cheaper!
I had the same problem when i bought my 20 last April but it took me prob a month or more to get in used to it. Ater a while you automatically keep tweaking the wheel to keep her straight..ish
When i first launched her it was hilarious to everyone (apart to me) zig zagging like you say up the river.
I'd agree - practice, practice, practice! my first norman conquest 21 took me weeks to get to steer straight. But I'd also say a full water tank in the bow will help. Please dont use stone or sand as ballast - in my view just a waste of petrol on extra weight. If you need more ballast take beer.
Thanks Guys, it would seem that I need to learn a lot more. i tried the beer as ballast Ollie but the ballast kept on moving about the boat.........in me!
Zig Zag 20
Posted - 16 Oct 2011 : 21:12:10
