motor pulls to the right

Question
I am looking at purchasing a 1984 Larson boat with a rebuilt Chrysler 140hp outboard motor on it. at idle and low speeds the boat runs great, as soon as you pick up speed and there is force on the motor you have to physically hold the steering wheel straight, if you let go the boat automatically turns to the right as fast and as far as it can. I have tried adjusting the fin on the motor by the prop but that doesnt seem to help or make a difference at all. any ideas what could be causing this?

Answer
Hi Tim...Sorry for the delay in responding to your question.

Your Larson is 24 yrs. old, and likely constructed of fibreglass. Since your attempt to correct the problem wasn't successful, perhaps the hull has absorbed moisture which is now trapped within the fibreglass laminates. An experienced and reliable surveyor will be able to sound out the hull and offer an informed opinion as to how bad the situation might be and whether it is economically viable to repair. When the boat is out of the water, look for bulges or blisters along the sides and bottom of your boat. As well, the hull should be completely sounded out in order to detect all affected areas.

Also, you might have water trapped in the bilge below the false floor, and the extra weight may be influencing the boat's direction, or its a matter redistributing equipment, passengers, etc. more evenly.

Safe Boating
Ron