Water Getting in 1991 Nautique Sport

[RoosterSportNautique]

This is my first inboard boat, I have always wanted one. Found it at a reasonable price.

I have had it on the lake 5 times so far. The last time it was taking on more water than i would like. It was loaded with gas and people. I am thinking it may be the rudder packing. There is about 2-3” of slack in the rudder. The steering seems fine since i got the boat. All the hoses are in decent condition and appears to have the proper drip from the drive shaft.

It also seemed to slip about two seconds into pulling a skier. I had to let off the throtle, when i get back on it it seems fine. Just worried about possible problems.

Any advice for a new old Nautique owner is appreciated.

[a0128]

Did you check your thru-hull fittings?

[ScooterMcgavin]

Also check the sealant that goes between the hull and deck. Sometimes that area needs to be resealed or sealed period. Especially on that particular hull where the platform is molded to the hull. The part where the deck curves down to meet the platform is a good spot for water to creep in. I had this same era Sport Nautique back in the day.

[RoosterSportNautique]

i am headed to the lake after friday with the boat in tow.
I have not check the thru hull fittings. I am not 100% sure of what/how to check. I will certainly look for some info to check them over the weekend. I will also check the area where the molded deck and platform meet.

Does the rudder play seem normal with 2-3” of slack when on the trailer?
I will definately try to narrow down the easier solutions first. We are all under a budget in todays times.
Thank ls to both of you for the suggestions.
I will update after checking these items mentioned above.

[ScooterMcgavin]

If it’s on the trailer you can use a hose to fill bilge up some and then look under boat to see if you can see anywhere water is coming out…

[RoosterSportNautique]

I will do that before i put it in the water this weekend. Thanks

[shag]

The rudder should have very little play (I am not sure what 2-3 and the symbol is) as stated above, if you use a hose and put water in the bildge on the trailer - you may find the leak. My experience, if you check that way - you should see NO water coming out anywhere. The packing gland for your prop shaft, should have around 10 drops a minute - when in gear and idling. This is what lubes the prop shaft. Some of these older boats need the the stuffing box (normally what's called the packing gland around the prop shaft where it goes through the hull) requires occasional maintenance. Adjusting the large nut (tightening to loosening) may be required or the wax rope inside may need to be 're-packed'. Rudder port should be same way, very minute amount of water coming in if any.
As far as the hull talked about above, it is literally where the top deck is 'set' on to the hull of the boat. Some boats did not get enough sealant and in areas, can allow a little water in - on a turn or when heavily weighted.

[RoosterSportNautique]

Thanks, is there a reccomended sealant or prefered one?
The rudder seems to have 2”+ of slack. I just happen to grab it and i remember it miving easily. I dont think the wheel turned but i will check on it shorty. I will be picking it up from storage and head to the lake.
As far as the slip on pulling a heavy skier out of the water, what could I look at to determine the issue? About 1-2 seconds into the throttle the tranmission seems to slip. I back out a bit real fast and get back in it and it pulls.