How to Avoid Spin-Outs on Your Boat

A spin-out is when your boat goes out of control, spinning wildly until it hits something or eventually comes to a stop. Not only are spin-outs a frightening thing to experience, they can result in serious injuries. That’s why the experts at Clews & Strawbridge have created this guide to avoid spinning out in your boat.

1. Adjust For Steering Pull

Steering pull is when the motion of the propeller pulls a boat’s motor to the right or left. It usually occurs in sterndrive or outboard motors and is a common cause of spin-outs. Most motors have a small fin just above the propeller called the trim fin meant to help avoid steering pull. Read your owner’s manual for more information about how to adjust your motor’s trim fin. 

2. Wear the Kill Cord

A kill cord is a lanyard or clip worn by a boat operator. If the operator gets pulled away from the steering wheel for any reason, the kill cord will be pulled out, causing the engine to stop. While this won’t instantly end the spin-out, it will limit how far the boat goes once it’s out of control. 

3. Don’t Go Too Fast

Many spin-outs occur simply because the operator is going too fast when they try to make a turn. Always slow down when turning your boat if possible. If you need to turn and don’t have enough time to slow down, try to make the turn as wide as possible while keeping your speed consistent. 

For more safety information or to shop our selection of new and pre-owned boats, visit Clews & Strawbridge at our dealership in Frazer, Pennsylvania. We also carry boat parts, as well as offer boat servicing and financing. We are proud to serve communities like West Chester and Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.