How to run on one motor if emergency (blew water circulator)


L

luriesd

Member
Hi all,

2000 280 SS with twin Merc 350s and Bravo IIIs.

Yesterday I (apparently) blew a water circulating pump in my port motor (rattling, loose pulley, leaking). I was close to my slip, so no issue. But if this happens (or something else) at sea, can I just slow down and run Port motor only?

One of the reasons I like twin engine boats is the redundancy, but will it harm the Bravo III on the other motor to run home slow? If it is okay, any procedures to know....should I trim the other up out of the water? Put it in neutral?

Thanks for any tips....

Steve
 
Roughly 1500 max rpm on 1 motor. It’s pushing a lot of weight by itself. Pushing it too hard and u can blow things up. Been there done that
 
Running on one motor is fine in emergency situations. But be aware if your backwater flaps are not intact the motor that is shut down will fill with water.
 
Another note, probably only on newer boats, with fly by wire. I believe the starboard engine, imparts "stops" on the helm wheel, and provides helm direction indication.. This means the boat will still steer, but the wheel will spin and spin, it will be virtually impossible to determine the position of your drive, until you apply power.
 
You must log in or register to reply here.
Back
Top