How to keep the engines straight while trailering? - Page 2

moose-hunter · #11 07-19-2012, 11:34 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TJEli

This does not work with hydro steering. Centering clips do the trick. You can make your own pretty easily.

-Eli

Eli...

I was thinking of using some 3/4" I.D. PVC with a smaller, like 1/2" wide, slot cut into it. It would "clip" over the rods and be fairly rigid. But would something like the EPDM rubber "clips" be a better option as they have a bit of "give" to them.

moose-hunter · #12 07-19-2012, 04:30 PM

3/4" I.D. PVC works just fine. I also upped the slot to 5/8". Along with a foot or so of stout cord and I have a working prototype! I'm going to dye the whole deal a BRIGHT color so I don't space it out at the landing. Nothing for mass production mind you, but if it works... I'll be happy!

Now... What to do with the rest of this 8' section of PVC I just picked up?

REW · #13 07-19-2012, 07:55 PM

Simply take a couple of vinyl hooks like are used on transom tie downs.
Hook one to the steering wheel and one to the throttle or other side brace. Then, put an adjustable strap between the two hook and tighten securely.

Your motor will be rock solid.

REW

moose-hunter · #14 07-19-2012, 08:53 PM

Oh yeah... Both my engines are now rock solid. All the added straping seemed a bit too much compared to two little PVC spacers.

Now, my only concern is that PVC has very little, if any, "give" to it. With the ends of both the steering cylinder at the engine and the ends of the tie bar bracket all being steel, I'm 99% confident my design will work. Failure of chosen material may be the game changer. Trial by fire, or in this case, by road, happens tomorrow.

TJEli · #15 07-20-2012, 07:19 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by REW

Simply take a couple of vinyl hooks like are used on transom tie downs.
Hook one to the steering wheel and one to the throttle or other side brace. Then, put an adjustable strap between the two hook and tighten securely.

Your motor will be rock solid.

REW

Let me repeat myself....

This DOES NOT WORK with hydro steering. Centering clips are the answer.

Moose, I use 1/2" reinforced water hose. PVC works fine too.

-Eli

moose-hunter · #16 07-20-2012, 08:57 AM

Quote:

Originally Posted by TJEli

Let me repeat myself....

This DOES NOT WORK with hydro steering. Centering clips are the answer.

Moose, I use 1/2" reinforced water hose. PVC works fine too.

-Eli

Thanks Eli! I'll keep that in mind in case my design fails.