[Mark I]

What are they and how do they work? Can older boats/engines be retro-fitted to troll slower?

I know that they allow torky diesel boats to troll at slower speeds but that it the extent of my knowledge.

[K1W1]

Hi,

They are valves that allow a lot of the clutch oil pressure to bleed off and let the clutches slip a bit, you can not run them at anywhere near full power.

Not all G/Boxes can run them, check with the manufacturer of your to find out if they are available for your application.

[Mark I]

Thanks

[NYCAP123]

With the 51 Bertram I used to run we'd have to go to one engine and bring the wheel over going through harbors. Can definitely be a P.I.T.A. in a busy spot

[Capt J]

Originally Posted by NYCAP123

With the 51 Bertram I used to run we'd have to go to one engine and bring the wheel over going through harbors. Can definitely be a P.I.T.A. in a busy spot

I get used to it and a lot of the sportfishes and fast MY's are that way. Usually you just countersteer one complete turn and you're right on the money.

Trolling valves slip the gears a little as Kiwi said and some transmissions can be added, and yes it will slow the boat down, but what is your goal? Most sportfishes I never use the trolling gears while trolling and just keep 1 engine in gear to slow it down. I prefer the manueverability WITHOUT the trolling valves if we get on a large fish. The trolling valves will also create a lot more delay going into gear, and really shouldn't be shifted with them on.

[Mark I]

On one engine I am still doing 4.5 knots. In order to get down to 3.5 I need to bump in and out of gear.

[NYCAP123]

Originally Posted by Mark I

On one engine I am still doing 4.5 knots. In order to get down to 3.5 I need to bump in and out of gear.

That's how it's done and it will drive you mad if you bring that boat south and get stuck on the inside below Beaufort, N.C.

[CSkipR]

Originally Posted by Mark I

What are they and how do they work? Can older boats/engines be retro-fitted to troll slower?

I know that they allow torky diesel boats to troll at slower speeds but that it the extent of my knowledge.

I have trolling valves and use them regularly in shallow water because the slipping clutch allows the props to slip in case I bump bottom. They are not good for manuvering the boat. My idle is 7.0 knts with both engines and 5.5 with one. Not sure about the retro fitting question.