How does propeller torque produce boat roll?
When observing from behind a boat, the propeller turns clockwise when underway with a normal right-hand propeller. As water resists the clockwise rotating propeller, it causes the boat to roll slightly in the opposite direction (counterclockwise) or down on the left (port) side and up on the right (starboard) side. To offset this slight imbalance, the driver’s seat is placed on the starboard (right) side. Boats differ significantly in the degree of their reaction to prop torque.
Related Questions
- You suggested a 13" diameter x 14" pitch propeller for my boat. Would a smaller diameter propeller with more pitch provide the same performance?
- Can one propeller be best for both maximum boat speed and maximum pulling power, say when pulling a skier or fish nets?
- How does propeller torque produce boat roll?
