Finally on the water - a few questions...

[ckaiser]

Got my new-to-me 98 Wellcraft 175SX out on the water for the first time yesterday. I posted about the work I've done on it to get it ready (http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?p=3040408).

Went down to Lake Havasu at Windsor Beach. Not crowded. Whew...
Got everything ready in the staging area, pulled around to the ramp. Backed it in, checked for leaks, looked OK. Pushed it off, wife holding the bow rope, parked the truck/trailer. Got back in and rechecked, still looked OK, so started it up and backed out. A little putting around and everything was OK, so we headed out onto the lake.

Spent about an hour and a half out there and everything worked just fine. I only wish my handling skills were as good as the boat. LOL...

A couple of things I found problematic... First, at medium cruise speed, it would bounce a bit if we found a wake or some chop, setting up a bounce harmonic that got worse after 4 or 5 and the only way I could find out of it was to slow down. Is this normal or am I doing something wrong?

Next, it wallows or yaws at slow (no wake) speed. I'm assuming this is also normal? Or is there something I can do to reduce/eliminate it?

Third, trying to dock the boat by using reverse was an education. It appeared to have a mind of its own in regard to direction and thrust. Some reading since then tells me I'm not alone in this and I'll be practicing backing more next time out. But any tips or methods would be appreciated.

Hoping to do a boating class and get out with more experienced drivers soon.

But in the meantime, we had a great time. I was actually able to get it on the trailer OK after trying to line up 5 or 6 times and "going around". At least I was smart enough to not try to force the issue when I didn't feel I had good control.

Thanks!

Charlie

 

[burp]

Re: Finally on the water - a few questions...

Charlie,

Sounds like you had a good time out on the water!

When the bow goes to bouncing (porpoising) up and down, it usually indicates you are trimmed up a little too high. Bump the outdrive trim down a little and the porpoising will stop.

Slow speed wander is pretty common with V hulls. Some will say run the outdrive (or trim tabs if you have them) fully down. Basically, I have found not to overcorrect when making course corrections has the biggest impact on the slow speed wander.

Docking.......never approach the dock any faster than you want to hit it. Most will say docking when heading into the wind will give you the most control of the boat. Approach the dock at a 30-45 degree and stop (by bumping reverse) a few (2-3) feet short of the dock. Turn the steering wheel fully towards the dock and bump reverse once or twice. The stern will pull in towards the dock.

Good idea on the boating class. They are well worthwhile.

 

[veritas honus]

Re: Finally on the water - a few questions...

Sounds like you're doing great so far. Take a boater safety course ASAP. Shortly after it starts, you'll be really glad you're there!!! In-so-far as the bouncing through the chop, trim down a little and it should smooth right out. Play with the trim (up and down) in various conditions including glass. Get a feel for your boat and what it can do. It won't be long before your controling your boat instead of the other way around. The drifting at idle speed is normal... With experience, you'll deal with it more happily, and more effectively. Backing up... You don't need to parallel park your boat in most places. Practice will serve you well. Glad you're having a good time with it. Keep the positive mental attitude, and just have a great time!!!
Again... Take that boater safety course.

Safe and happy boating always!!!