Ideal engine size for cruising.

[Frank C]

. . . The obm and the rudders were both hooked up all the time, it gave the helm a real solid feel, and the obm did not flop if you were holding on to the wheel. . . . When I hooked up the steering cable to the obm first and then to the rudders, it was better yet.

having you promote him for free? How much is he paying you to do this?>

Thanks Bill.
Behavior of my steering & OBM is identical, though the linkage is Mac standard. You can feel the weight of the motor, but there is no notable friction. Disconnecting the motor makes the steering a little lighter, but either way the wheel turns with just one finger. I prefer the feel of steering when the motor remains connected. It just doesn't flop when sailing, but road jounce or trailer whip will flop it after a couple of miles. I try to remember to turn the wheel to either lock before going down the road.

Engine mounting of this Suzuki 60 simply has to play a role. Gene Arena mentioned that he intended to elevate it and tilt it aft mainly for prop depth and trim range. He also mentioned that it helps the steering geometry, but I never asked why. Don't know if you ever met Gene, but he was a motor & prop wizard.
Works fer me ...

P.S. .... P_a_i_d promotion ?? Hardly.

[Rolf]

Hi Bill,
I've known "Iron Mike" (ha ha) for a few years now and he is a pretty good guy and very knowledgable. He rigged my boat and sold me a few options, talked me out of some un-needed ones, plus has corrected minor probs (loose c/b rope). That said, he is more expensive, especially when you consider he picks up parts and boats himself direct from the nearby factory. He also looked at me blankly when I mentioned this site at the recent boat show.
Rolf