346 Bow Thruster

[jostephens]

I am about to install a bow thruster in my 2002 346, I am looking for help to know how long a tunnel I need to purchase, also if the sink sump pump reservoir has to be relocated, any info or pictures would be appreciated.

[SHEMP]

Please check this companies website


https://dockingbycontrol.com/


Are you comfortable cutting a 12 " hole in your bow and then fiberglassing the tube in place ?

[Mkemper]

The length of the tunnel real depends on the location. I am installing a Max power thruster CT80 and a 30" tunnel length is plenty. The tunnel diameter is 8" This is on a carver 3207 which is fairly close to yours with a LOA just over 37' key is the location once you find that you will know your tunnel length. Rule of thumb is is must be at least one diameter of the tunnel below the water line. As far forward as possible. Key as well is the lenght at the bottom of the tunnel which will vary greatly from the top of the tunnel.

What make and model thruster?

Oh and when spring rolls around I will include this project in the Carver 3207 revised thread

Think spring!

[jostephens]

Hello Mkemper, thanks for the reply, I just did another post to answer Shemp's post, it has the unfo on my thruster, a 41" tunnel came with the thruster so I think it will be plenty long.

[jostephens]

Sorry Shemp, after re-reading my first post, I can see where it appears I would be doing the work myself, nope, I am just suppling the parts so wanted to make sure my tunnel is long enough before it is hauled out. regards, Jim

[jostephens]

Lemar 185TT 6.0 HP with 7 5/16 Tunnel

[Mkemper]

Lemar 185TT 6.0 HP with 7 5/16 Tunnel

That's about the size I am installing. The 7 5/16 is most likely the inside dimension. The actual hole is probably 8". Something am sure your installer is well aware of. Anyways sure you will enjoy it and ya that tunnel lenght should be plenty

[jostephens]

Thanks, I am so looking forward to it, have had the boat for 10 years and with this boat when docking the wind is not your friend. : )

[Lyndon670]

I had my Silverton 42C which had a 15' beam and a huge bridge with full canvass - so it was basically a sailboat. But, I did not have a bow thruster, and just used the rudders and opposite engine with throttle and never had an issue. People forget that they can use the rudders WITH transmission while docking, most people only use transmissions.

[waybomb]

What Lyndon said. 4207 with gas engines. Essentially a sailboat. Never had a need for a thruster.
One time I needed help, but a thruster would not have helped. Came across the lake and it got bad. Like 35mph winds.

Radioed in and a neighbor was waiting with 100 foot of line. Pulled up, tied it to a center cleat, let the wind blow me down to my slip, and he, God bless him, locked that line tight right at the right time and swung right in. Perfect.