Left turn Clyde

I recently purchased a 2017 PA14. It seems to have trouble at times going left. I thought maybe this was due to current or wind, but it’s not the case and it’s not all the time either. I talked with the only other person I know with the same yak and he’s experienced the same thing. Any suggestions as to why? Thanks

Have a good day, Pez

Only likely possibility on the kayak is that the steering has been adjusted incorrectly. The left steering handles do not point straight forward when the boat is going straight. They typically are 15-20 degrees inboard. That is for ergonomic and mechanical reasons. Typically the handle can only rotate outboard to a point.

You can check this by swinging the steering handle far left and then far right. The mid swing is where the rudder should be straight (mark that point on the boat.

To adjust, remove the black lid on the aft deck (4 screws). Retract the rudder (Holds it centered), loosen the steering control lines from the drum. Set the handle at mid swing. Then tension the lines to hold the rudder straight while the handle is mid-swing.

_________________
Matt Miller
Former - Director of Parts and Accessory Sales
Warranty and Technical Support
Hobie Cat USA
(Retired 11/7/2022)

Thank You!!!