Signs Your Outboard Motor Isn’t Mounted Properly

Posted by Bixpy on Mar 4th 2022

Signs Your Outboard Motor Isn’t Mounted Properly

Several signs indicate that your outboard motor isn’t at its correct height, and your PWC will act in ways depending on if it’s too high or low. These are some general warning signs your outboard motor isn’t mounted properly:

  • Deterioration of the transom.
  • Worn out hardware.
  • Misalignment.
  • The new gearcase is a different size than the original.

If It’s Too High

If the outboard motor is too high, there are various complications you might notice. The most obvious one is an unleveled plane. When you try to plane out the boat, the prop blowing out indicates that the overboard is too high. Additionally, having less drag is a telltale sign that the motor is too high because the motor isn’t underwater enough.

Porpoising occurs when the tilted position is off, breaking contact with the water. If this happens, your speed will diminish, and you won’t reach maximum acceleration. Low water pressure also may be the aftereffect of an outboard motor that’s elevated.

If It’s Too Low

You may notice that your boat is lacking RPMs. A low setup of the outboard motor could be the culprit. The inverse of a high placement of a motor having less drag is having it too low, giving it excessive drag. In turn, the extreme drag leads to less control of the boat. You’ll have an issue adjusting the speed of your boat with a low outboard motor. Lastly, you might have to readjust the mounted motor if you notice unnecessary water sprays.

What Should You Do?

You can adjust it yourself by moving things like the fuel tank and battery around. Alternatively, you can consider trimming the boat to eliminate any porpoising concerns. Otherwise, focus all your attention on the transom and rebuild it to the correct level. Also, it wouldn’t hurt to replace the prop during the reconstruction process.

The cost of mounting the motor can add up depending on the game plan. Try to avoid an entire rebuild if you can, considering that it would put a dent in your finances. The most cost-effective solution is replacing the hardware holding down the marine bedding. You can walk away relatively unphased if you choose that option.

If you any experiencing any of the signs your outboard motor isn’t mounted properly, contact Bixpy to help solve your dilemma. We will be more than happy to assist you in finding an outboard motor and battery that operates effectively.