Dunno about the engine, but the backing up problem is pretty typical. The single screw forces the stern one way (prop walk), and the boat only wants to go that way in reverse. Anecdotally, some props seem to work better than others, but even with an "optimized" system, these boats don't back up well. The rudder and keel are really designed to work going the other way (as in forward), and the prop is not forcing the flow over the rudder like it is when you are going forward. For me, relatively small steering inputs and slow speeds seem to offer the best control and minimum "prop walk". That, and I go in forward as soon as possible. These boats turn really well in forward under power.
Keith Sneddon ________________________________ From: [email protected] [mailto:[EMAIL PROTECTED] On Behalf Of [EMAIL PROTECTED] Sent: Tuesday, May 29, 2007 11:26 AM To: [email protected] Subject: catalina27-talk: New Used Boat I recently purchased a 1982 Catalina 27 with a universal diesel engine and pedestal steering. I have 2 major questions that maybe some one can help me with. #1 Once started, the engine runs great however, it will not start on its own. The batteries are new and the starter seems to crank strong. We need to give it a shot of starting spray each time we need to get her started and the engine roars to life. Common sense tells me this in not normal. Has any one had this issue? Are there any suggestions as to what may be wrong? #2 We are in a marina and I am accustom to our previous 22' boat with an out board. It was easily maneuvered and backed out of the slip. I don't even have to back out of a slip with the new boat I just need to back out 25 to 30 yards to open water. Here lies the problem. The boat seems to be very uncontrollable in reverse. Are there some guidelines to backing up without taking out half of the marina?? ________________________________ AOL now offers free email to everyone. Find out more about what's free from AOL at AOL.com <http://www.aol.com?ncid=AOLAOF00020000000437> .
