How to improve the way boat handles?

Joined
Mar 17, 2007
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29
I have a 1997 Alumacraft 16" semi-v w/ a 50 rude remote. She runs great now that I've completed motor repairs. But it drifts when I TRY to turn. I mean the side slip is extreme. Has anyone ever added/welded chines under an alum boat to improve the bite? Would it work to put say 3 feet of 3 inch alum angle under each side on the stern? Or would a smaller size work just as well. I fish a river, a rocky river, a boat that does not respond, esp w/ this speed, is dangerous. thanks for input. Have you checked out those inflatable racers, how do they get response like that when I can't in a much heavier boat?

Thanks again
Bruce
 

tashasdaddy

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Nov 11, 2005
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Re: How to improve the way boat handles?

they can be a plus and a minus, get your motor trimmed correctly. i had a dolfin (whale tale) on my motor i had to take off, as i could not corner, without slowing. sharp turn i still have to back off the throttle. my boat is a DEEP DEEP V.
 

Bob_VT

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May 19, 2001
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Re: How to improve the way boat handles?

Go to the Prop section and put in a message to get in touch with Dhadley. He races and would have a good grasp of what works etc. It may be simple like changing the outboard height or a prop change.

My aluminum semi v bass boat (115 hp) can be a bear to turn depending on the height of the outboard. I had it raised all the way up.... gained speed but could not muster the power to turn or control it.

I will bet a prop change will solve the problem. Dhadley is the man to give the right prop advice (or is that PROPer advice:) )
 

Bondo

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Re: How to improve the way boat handles?

Would it work to put say 3 feet of 3 inch alum angle under each side on the stern?

That would be Extremely Excessive..............1" Maybe........
 

Bob_VT

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Re: How to improve the way boat handles?

If a piece that big caught all of a sudden....... something may give or you could split the hull. :eek:
 
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