Apex Digital Outlook 180DX Owner's Manual download pdf (Page 147)

10-2

The effects of unequal propeller thrust, wind, and

current must also be kept in mind. While wind and

current may not always be present, an experienced

boater will use them to his or her advantage. Unequal

thrust is an aspect shared by all single-engine

propeller-driven watercraft. A clockwise rotation

propeller tends to cause the boat, steering in the

straight ahead position, to drift to starboard when

going forward, and to port when going backward. At

high speed, this effect is usually unnoticed, but at slow

speed, especially during backing, it can be powerful.

For this reason, many veteran boaters approach the

dock with the port side of the boat toward the dock, if

possible.

Stopping (checking headway) is a technique that must

be developed. Reverse thrust is used to slow and stop

the boat. The momentum of the boat will vary

according to the load as well as the speed. Make it a

practice to slow to idle (no-wake) speed before shifting

into reverse.

It is best to learn maneuvering skills in open water

away from traffic. Adequate practice is the only way to

develop your boating skills.

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Apex Digital Outlook 180DX Owner's Manual Page 147