Northwest Yachting Magazine
Docking Made Easy with Heavy-Duty Bow Thruster
Many boat owners stress out over the process of docking. Even if conditions are favorable, the larger the boat, the more difficult it is to maneuver. For greater control while docking, Sideshift offers its easy-to-install SS 340HD Bow Thruster for boats up to 50' long.
Utilizing dual props, the SS 340HD Bow Thruster mounts against the bow, attaching to the existing bow eye. Wires are then routed through the anchor locker drain. In most cases, no holes are necessary. Installation can be completed while the boat is in water. Placing the props at the furthest point forward creates a higher pivot point, providing greater maneuverability while using less power
By eliminating the tunnel design of conventional through-hull units, installation and maintenance costs are significantly reduced. The possibility of leakage and prop damage due to debris is removed. Once the boat is on plane, the bow thruster clears the water, creating almost zero drag. Delivering an immediate response, the bow thruster runs for 30 to 45 seconds and cools for 15.
An easy-to-use joystick control allows for effortless maneuvering. Drawing 600 amps, the bow thruster operates on a 24 volt DC system. An optional transformer enables the use of an existing 12 volt charging system. The SS 340HD Bow Thruster comes equipped with a harness that runs from the thruster to motor controller, compression terminals, a helm control switch and all mounting hardware. Optional equipment includes a polished aluminum joystick.
Sideshift S-Series Bow Thrusters are designed to optimize efficiency and power for a range of boat types and sizes. The S-Series offers superior performance at an excellent price. Other models in the series accommodate boats from under 30' up to 40' in length. Stern thruster models that attach to the exterior of the transom or swim platform are also available.
Suggested retail price for the SS 340HD Bow Thruster is $3,995US.