install bow thruster - Maxum Boat Owners Club

pascavone · 05-13-2011, 05:43 PM

anyone every install one, and what is the cost?

I see $5k to have someone getting it done.

You could buy a new engine for that.

I figured there is a reason that most boats don't come with them from the factory.

shrew · 05-16-2011, 02:23 PM

You see them more in single inboards. You can 'tractor' with twins with one forward and one in reverse. The opposed props allow for some 'prop-walk' which can also be used to your advantage. In a single Inboard, the rudder gives very limiteed feedback in reverse since the propwash is not being directed over teh rudder. this is really where a bow thruster comes in handy. With I/O's the outdrive directs thrust in both Fwd and reverse making it significantly more controllable. With twin IO's you can both direct thrust and tractor. PLus, with twin IO's the thrust can also be directed with the wheel, giving huge amounts of control.

This, AND teh cost is usually why you don't see bow thrusters on I/O's. the cost to drill the hole in the bow and reglass everything and install the bow thruster is somewaht cost prohibitive for the benefit on most boats. I admit it would make it supremely easier to dock a single IO to a dock broadside when teh wind is pusing you off of the dock, however a good 1st mate and the use of spring lines can overcome these challenges too.

Personally, I find there is never a need to look far to find something to spend money on in a boat. This is not one I'd be looking at. But that is my unsolicited opinion.

jeffmeans · 05-17-2011, 12:12 AM

I'v looked at this Side-Shifter thing in the past... about $2,800 for my boat. Other than being a CONSTANT conversation piece and kind of ugly-looking I think it would be cool to have.