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How to Avoid Spin-Outs on Your Boat

Apr. 3 2023 Safety By Tommy's Boats

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The more powerful the motor on your boat, the faster you can cruise around. However, all that power can be dangerous as well, particularly if you lose control of your vehicle. That is why Tommy’s Boats has put together this guide to avoiding spin-outs while boating.

1. Adjust for Steering Pull

Steering pull is one of the most common causes of spin-outs. It occurs when the motion of the propeller jerks the engine left or right, throwing off your steering. Because it’s such a common problem, manufacturers have come up with many different ways to account for it. For example, older outboard and sterndrive motors have a small trim fin just above the propeller that prevents the motor from being pulled side to side. For information about how to adjust for steering pull on your specific model, read your owner’s manual.

2. Wear the Kill Cord

Many boats have a safety feature called a kill cord. It is a cord or switch that attaches to a lanyard or clip worn by the boat operator. If the operator becomes incapacitated or is pulled away from the steering wheel, the kill cord automatically shuts off the engine. This helps prevent the boat from running out of control during an incident, so make sure that you are using your kill cord if you have one.

3. Don’t Go Too Fast

Just because your boat can achieve a certain speed doesn’t always mean that speed is safe. While going at maximum speed in your watercraft will always be more dangerous, turning at high speed is even more so. Closing the throttle during a turn will make the boat’s bow drop, causing a shift in momentum and a spinout. If you find yourself approaching a turn too fast, make it as wide as possible and keep your speed consistent to maximize control.

We here at Tommy’s Boats hope these tips help you have a safe and fun day out on the water. Come visit one of our dealerships and view our selection of new and pre-owned boats. With sixteen locations across the US, including five in California and three in Michigan, you are sure to be able to find one near you. We also offer servicing, parts, rentals, boat customization, financing, brokerage, trade-ins, and storage. We hope to see you soon!