Spring is almost here. I've been busy and have done nothing with my boat over the winter, despite great plans to add a stereo, etc. Just too busy... I did buy two more props for the boat, just to try some different options this summer. One thing I'd like to do is get some additional weight in the bow. All things considered, it is simply too bow light, which requires nearly full down trim and at least a half tank of fuel up front to keep the boat well behaved (no porpoising) while pulling heavier skiiers. I'm wondering what others have done to add weight up front. For example, I have to think that 2Mercs' boat has more engine weight on the transom than my boat (I think I'm about 512 lbs dry weight with my Optimax). Are you doing anything to add weight up front? I'd like this boat to stay flatter in the water. I'm interested in what others do to counter the weight in the back - particularly with 18's. Thanks for any help! Markbano
Mark, We always use sand tubes because they are cheap and easy to conform to the bow of the boat. I would start with one 70lb sand tube as far up front as possible. If you do not get them all the way up front they are not nearly as effective.
Mark, I would try a wedge first. It is easier and it might do the trick. I hate to see weight added to a boat or an airplane. jim
I don't disagree with the weight concern. On the other hand, I already know that I will simply not have the time to do anything as invasive as removing the engine and installing a wedge this spring. I was hoping to just throw some weight up there for now this spring. My re-working of various things (like the rub rail, stereo, shut-offs for the airguides) might have to wait until next winter. I was set back by my unexpected 2 month annual inspection on the airplane and spring is really busy for me. It seems to me that either way you lose something in order to get something. Adding weight up front makes the boat heavier. On the other hand, using the wedge redirects some of the thrust from rearward to downward, which is a less efficient use of that power. So isn't there a penalty either way? It is a physics issue that is a bit beyond my ken.... Also - even at rest in the water I'd like the boat to sit a bit more flat. This would particularly help with refueling - to get the tank full. Must Ski - My concern is that a bag of sand will break open up there from all the bouncing around. Do you put it inside of something to keep that from happening?
Mark, If you don't get the weight in, just have someone sit on the bow when you are fueling to level the boat out. You could probably pour (or siphon) from there. I think you have plenty of thrust and can afford to use a little to level the boat out with more negative trim. :yahoo: jim
That is good counsel. The wife wiped out the family Suburban yesterday. She's OK thankfully. I guess I no longer have anything to pull the Dyne with. Perhaps I can put it in the yard and plant some flowers in it. Or, back to car shopping again, looks like...
I'm glad to hear she is OK. The car can be replaced. I have ridden in a new Suburban. They are really nice. Go all out and get the gps with screen. If you can't find a tow vehicle I will be glad to come get it and store it in FL until you need it. That would save you from filling it with dirt. I will put the wedge in--no charge. The big Toyota suv is nice too. jim
