Frequently Asked Questions
How deep should I install the unit into the water?
Your SIDESHIFT thruster must be installed with the top of the propellers five inches below the water surface.
Last updated:Wednesday 10th of March 2010 08:46:30 AM
What do I do for maintenance?
Change the anodes once per year to protect your investment from corrosion. Ensure that the air line is in good condition and secured in a dry location. As required paint unit with anti-fouling paint... That's it!
Last updated:Monday 14th of December 2009 10:39:21 AM
What if I hit something?
This is a common question. First of all the unit construction is cast and extruded aluminum and stainless steel. If someone was to hit an object hard enough to damage our unit, if the unit wasn't there they would have a hole in their boat or some damage. If anything the Sideshift provides a certain amount of protection. I don't know how often people hit things but we have never in the 9 years ever seen a unit come back damaged due to hitting something. People usually hit the dock far more often and do serious damage to their boat because they don't have thrusters. People buy thrusters so they don't hit things.
Last updated:Monday 14th of December 2009 09:29:55 AM
How efficient is the single propeller when the direction is reversed, is it as efficient in either direction?
We have tried to balance the efficiency between the directions. The motors’ least efficient direction is equalized by the propellers’ most efficient direction, and vice versa.
Last updated:Thursday 24th of September 2009 10:38:03 AM
What is the air line for?
the air line is vent for the motor. Please ensure that it is in good condition and that it is secured in a dry location inside the boat.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:17:49 PM
What size of boat can SIDESHIFT handle?
SIDESHIFT can handle a variety of boat types and sizes. Please select your boat type under products / bow & stern thrusters and view our thruster selection chart.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:17:41 PM
Do I have to take my boat out of the water to install a SIDESHIFT bow thruster?
No. SIDESHIFT can be installed while your boat is still in the water.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:17:34 PM
Does the motor turn around to push boat the other way?
The motor stays in a fixed position and reverses direction to push the boat the other way.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:17:23 PM
I have an upper helm, can I install a joystick at both stations?
Yes, our motor controller is made for more than one joystick.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:17:00 PM
What kind of corrosion protection does the SIDESHIFT have?
The Sideshift units are protected with 2 part epoxy primer with 2 coats of anti-fouling paint. We also have sacrificial anode protection as well.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:16:48 PM
Will the bow thruster work on a displacment hull?
Yes, the bow thruster will work on a displacment hull. The drag created by our thruster is similar to that of a through hull design.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:16:38 PM
How close should my batteries be to the thruster?
Batteries should be as close as possible to the thruster.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:16:27 PM
Can I use my deep cycle battery bank?
No, you cannot use Deep Cycle batteries.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:15:52 PM
Is SIDESHIFT easy to use?
Yes. Just toggle left or toggle right for operation. It can't get any easier then that!
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:15:41 PM
How long can you run a SIDESHIFT?
30 seconds with a 20 second cool down.
Last updated:Wednesday 19th of August 2009 03:15:24 PM
Can I still put my boat on a trailer after installing a bow thruster?
Our bow thrusters can be trailered for travel. It is important that you to drive the trailer deep enough in the water so that the trailer does not touch the bow thruster.
Last updated:Tuesday 11th of August 2009 11:48:42 AM
Do you have a wireless joystick?
No, we do not have a wireless joystick yet. We are working on releasing the wireless joystick for 2010.
Last updated:Tuesday 4th of August 2009 01:15:44 PM
Can I use my existing batteries?
Existing batteries can be used as long as the batteries are starting type batteries, the required CCA is present and cabling size is adequate. Please remember it is always recommended that the batteries be as close to the thruster as possible.
Last updated:Tuesday 4th of August 2009 01:06:14 PM
Do SIDESHIFT bow thrusters create much drag when my boat is on plane?
No. Unlike traditional thru-hull thrusters, there is no drag with SIDESHIFT. Thrusters are located at the furthest point forward and are designed for docking and maneuvering at low speeds. Once your boat is on plane the thruster comes out of the water.
Last updated:Sunday 21st of June 2009 08:45:40 PM
How long does a SIDESHIFT take to install?
The average installation ranges from 6 to 8 hours. For more information about installation download our installation manual here.
Last updated:Sunday 21st of June 2009 08:43:56 PM
What is the shipping weight and dimensions?
Please view our individual specification sheets for shipping information (ex. SS230, SS340).
Last updated:Sunday 21st of June 2009 08:37:34 PM