external stern thruster retro fit

[Bouba]

After a few tricky berthing situations, particularly now that my wife is unable to assist with ropes/fenders etc, I am thinking about fitting an external stern thruster. The boat is a Beneteau Monte Carlo 37HT. I know, twin stern drives, shouldnt need one, but it would give me an extra element of control (and confidence) should it be required. I am looking at the SidePower EX models in 12v, but am not sure on the thrust. I have read that the stern thruster should have less thrust than the bow to allow the boat to move parallel when both used together? So, advice please on size required and not a debate on helmsmanship!

With outdrives you have this very clever option

 

[simonfraser]

With outdrives you have this very clever option

Any one fit this on their out drive ???

 

[Elessar]

Does anyone know if the deflection cowls rob the thruster of power?

No, by keeping the thrust in deeper water and stopping air being sucked in they improve performance if they are needed - ie if the thruster is too near the surface

 

[Bouba]

No, by keeping the thrust in deeper water and stopping air being sucked in they improve performance if they are needed - ie if the thruster is too near the surface

So if I remove the cowls (and they are deep enough) there will be no increase in performance?

 

[Elessar]

So if I remove the cowls (and they are deep enough) there will be no increase in performance?

I don't believe so. Maybe marginally as the thrust is no longer straight it's pointing down like a shaft drive boat. They must have paid the £100 or so for the ears for a reason, so i suspect you'll lose more than you gain.

 

[nateliv]

Side Power is well worth a look at their site has a calculator for proper selection