Lenny and Louise
Well-known member
- Joined
- May 2, 2013
- Messages
- 166
- Fluid Motion Model
- C-302 C
- Vessel Name
- Then Again
Whether it is called a trolling valve, slow speed configuration, or something else, it is something else! When we have it activated on our 2018 R31Sedan, it works wonders. At dead idle of 700 rpms, it cuts the idle speed from just over 5 knots to about 2 kts. At 900 rpm, the speed through the water is about the same whether valve is in use or not.
Manufacturer’s notes say that as throttle is advanced, valve closes before engine speed increases. But the recommendation is to place the engine in neutral before increasing rpm. Therefore, we have not run it over 900 rpm.
Our slip is in the middle of a strictly enforced 5 mph zone. On our previous boat, R25SC, we were constantly going in and out of gear. We could only steer when we had prop wash (especially going down current) so we had to put the wheel over, give it a nudge, then drift. This meant our head was wobbling about like a drunken sailor. Now we can just idle on the trolling valve, steer a straight course, and enjoy the view.
A pretty good current flows through our slip, fortunately nearly parallel to the slip. The slow speed valve lets me leave the boat in gear longer, just creeping forward, and with steering. Louise picks a good cleat and gets a taunt quarter line on it. The boat takes a slow strain on the line and gently slides to the dock. I can hold her steady alongside, keeping slight strain on the quarter line while Louise steps ashore to get the rest of the lines. No jumping, running or shouting. Very boring. And, when making a landing, boring is good.
This turns out to be an excellent purchase.
Manufacturer’s notes say that as throttle is advanced, valve closes before engine speed increases. But the recommendation is to place the engine in neutral before increasing rpm. Therefore, we have not run it over 900 rpm.
Our slip is in the middle of a strictly enforced 5 mph zone. On our previous boat, R25SC, we were constantly going in and out of gear. We could only steer when we had prop wash (especially going down current) so we had to put the wheel over, give it a nudge, then drift. This meant our head was wobbling about like a drunken sailor. Now we can just idle on the trolling valve, steer a straight course, and enjoy the view.
A pretty good current flows through our slip, fortunately nearly parallel to the slip. The slow speed valve lets me leave the boat in gear longer, just creeping forward, and with steering. Louise picks a good cleat and gets a taunt quarter line on it. The boat takes a slow strain on the line and gently slides to the dock. I can hold her steady alongside, keeping slight strain on the quarter line while Louise steps ashore to get the rest of the lines. No jumping, running or shouting. Very boring. And, when making a landing, boring is good.
This turns out to be an excellent purchase.