Boat snakes when taking the power off

[xtremeBS]

We have just got a 216 after years with M/C and are trying to iron out all our snags.......

When the throttle back for a fall in the slalom, the boat snakes about as it slows down. The boat has an adjustable rudder trim, which is currently set in line. Is this for correcting the problem, and if so which way should it be adjusted and how much?

[whataniceboat]

where in the uk are you based ?

[nms1991]

Do you have a even load in the boat(riding lower on drivers side or passenger side)?

[xtremeBS]

Based in the Midlands

The is evenly balanced with only a driver and spotter in the boat.

[jedgell]

In my experience, all direct drives do this. I've driven several Malibus and Nautiques and they've all done it, some more than others. I believe its from the torque, or rotation of the prop. When you're going 30+ mph there's a lot of torque due to the rotation of the prop but its at a constant. When you back off from the throttle the prop slows down significantly in a short time, which causes the boat to lean, or turn. I don't think the rudder has much to do with it. I wouldn't worry about it.

[xtremeBS]

Its the first boat I've had a problem with in 10yrs on Mastercrafts and Maristars.

Its just a bit of a chore avoiding lane buoys when you have a fall at 58kph.

[bkhallpass]

xtreme,

I don't know what is causing your issue. However, I just
drove a friend's 2002 Air 216 yesterday and experienced
none of the pulling issues you are referring to. Thus, I gotta
believe that there is some way of eliminating the issue from your
boat.

I will say that the 216 is a little more weight sensative than
the ski nautiques I've driven.

BKH

[Mikeski]

Used to run a 1/4 mile drag boat... Throttle on steer to left, throttle off steer to right. In a ski boat it should not be significant, might indicate something broken in the steering to rudder connection if it is.