Can you overdo twin screws shifting?

[rhodyboater]

I'm finally getting used to my twin 4.3's on my 280da, as far as docking...yay! But, I'm concerned I may be overusing the shifting, as I use them to dock rather than the steering wheel.
I mean I shift those suckers at least 20 times back, forth and neutral while docking, and of course hear the big "clunk" each time I shift. I know enough to shift quickly and not let the transmission grind, but still....am I going to wear these things out?

 

[fc3]

It depends. Real transmissions aren't bothered. But only inboards and V-drive Sea Rays have real transmissions. Alpha Ones have dog clutches. They do wear significantly when shifted in and out of gear. Bravos have cone clutches that wear, but less than the dogs in the Alpha.

 

[rhodyboater]

Yeah, I got a pair of A-1's. So, should I go easy on the shifting when docking?
I'm just getting used to finally backing it in my slip accurately by using just the shifters.
If I add steering to the mix, I'm afraid I'll be all over the place.

 

[Turtlesboat]

I use steering when I dock, also one engine at a time. I shift 3-4 times when I dock. Using the outside engine and some steering, you shouldn't need to shift so much.

 

[tobnpr]

Unlike inboards, stern drives (like outboards) have directional thrust. I've never owned a twin-screw I/O, but I'd think that turning the drives in the direction you want to go would be a lot more effective than just leaving them dead ahead and using gears like an inboard.

 

[sbw1]

Unlike inboards, stern drives (like outboards) have directional thrust. I've never owned a twin-screw I/O, but I'd think that turning the drives in the direction you want to go would be a lot more effective than just leaving them dead ahead and using gears like an inboard.

The slow speed handling of twin I/Os is exaggerated in my view. I used to own a 23' Formula with twin Volvo 170s. I docked it on one engine just like a single screw boat because that was more effective and easier than using both engines.

 

[Redhook98]

The slow speed handling of twin I/Os is exaggerated in my view. I used to own a 23' Formula with twin Volvo 170s. I docked it on one engine just like a single screw boat because that was more effective and easier than using both engines.

I concur....

 

[techmitch]

I use steering when I dock, also one engine at a time. I shift 3-4 times when I dock. Using the outside engine and some steering, you shouldn't need to shift so much.

Same here.

 

[JimT]

I am new to twin engine docking though not docking in general. I have a lot experience docking an 18,000 lb sailboat with a single 42 hp engine. On my 280DA I use steering and the engine on the side that will hit the finger pier to back in. Once inside the slip I use the opposite engine to correct and straighten. 3-4 shifts max.

 

[rhodyboater]

OK, thanks for the advice. So, can I damage the cables or the transmission until I develop better habits? I never thought of it until I was out with a fellow boater with twin inboards and he brought it to my attention.