What does a skeg do?

[polarsusd81]

This is a question to all the marine experts on here. What does the skeg do? I would assume it stabilizes the boat and helps steer while under power but what else. I guess it also protects the prop somewhat as well.

The reason I ask you wonder. Well years ago on the Croix, I hit some rocks and broke the skeg off of my motor. It is down far enough that nothing leaks or anything and I haven't noticed any difference in performance what so ever from when I used to have the skeg and now that I don't. I did eat a prop one time, but the skeg wouldn't have helped me in that situation. I guess I am just trying to figure out if I should have it repaired or if I should just keep running since there haven't been any adverse effects that I can notice?

[Sandmannd]

Good question. When I bought my 02 boat a year or so ago the skeg is missing about 4 inches off the bottom. Havne't noticed any issues with it.

[davesfriend]

I think it is there so you can fix something. LOL, That is a good question.

[JimBuck]

I'm no expert but I would agree with you polarsus. I think in the instance of a larger vessel missing a skeg it would have a much larger effect on performance, especially in rough conditions. Being a hockey fan I would use the analogy of a hockey skate on ice. The skeg acts as the edge of the blade allowing for manueverability (sp) and control over the body (or in this case the boat). Sure, you can play hockey with boots on, but when things get competitive it makes a difference in the end.

[ricqik]

The skegs purpose is for control and straight tracking. It is a neccesity for higher speed purposes and very little in slow speeds. The last thing you want is do a wipe out while turning at good speeds.

[Fishing Junky]

I agree with Ricqik on this one. I onced hit an object that bent the skeg, didn't break it. The motor didn't want to stay straight after that. Junky.............

[bassNspear]

its all about steering. It will help you turn corners alot better. think of it this way, if there is not the skag there, how is it going to turn without it. Im sure it does, just not very clear and good.

[marine_man]

It's primarily for steering purposes - a longer rudder so to speak. It's also there for prop protection, but more so from running aground than anything else from a protection standpoint. On higher hp boats (115 and up or around there) it makes a difference when it comes to control & steering torque.

marine_man

[polarsusd81]

Yeah, I guess I should note that this is a long shaft 15 Mariner on a short shaft transom. I top out about 25 mph on the gps and haven't really had any problems turning. But I was considering getting the TH Marine Mini Jacker to lift the motor up about 4" from its current position. I think if I do this, I would probably have to get the skeg fixed cause it will probably allow the boat to run a bit quicker and would then have less motor in the water. Does it sound like I am on the right track in this train of thought?

[bassNspear]

yes i think you are!

[marine_man]

Yep, I'd say you're on the right track. But, given your hp, I'd be tempted to see what it's like after you put the lift on it.

marine_man

[VMS]

agreed...it's only a 15 hp... I bet you will not notice any difference in performance.

Steve