Hydrofoils

[neurofish]

What do you think about the "wings" (hydrofoils/stabilizer/etc.) that you bolt onto the cavitation plate? I have a moderate/heavy loaded 14ft jonboat with a 25hp and am mostly interested in top end speed and fuel efficiency (I'm not pulling up skiers obviously). Any brand better than the rest? Worth the money? Thanks.

 

[MGuckin]

Re: Hydrofoils

I have them had on smaller boats and they do seem to help the boat plane easier and quicker, especially if you don't have trim and tilt. As far as brand, not sure.

 

[Dhadley]

Re: Hydrofoils

One of the benifits of the plates is that they allow you to raise the motor (increase the X dimension). If you don't, you will most likely loose top speed from the additional drag unless your motor is fairly high now. They work well on outboards and I would recommend one for your rig. Put it on, play with the height and let us know how you make out. <br /><br />Good luck!

 

[crab bait]

Re: Hydrofoils

i can't say nuff 'bout 'em !! best invention ever brought to market for a small boat tiller motor.. but any boat can benifit with them " WHALE TAILS "

 

[mike b.]

Re: Hydrofoils

Some boating "experts" will tell you that the one piece designs like the stingray will add stress to the lower unit.I purchased the Doelfin two piece design($20-25) and it works well on my 21 footer.A noticable difference in planing speed.

 

[Papa Smurf]

Re: Hydrofoils

have the Doelfin on my 17.5 foot tri hull with a 70 hp merc. Stopped the "porpoiseing" (sp?) Also planes out much quicker. Works great for skiers too.<br />You must drill 4 holes in your lower unit to mount it though.

 

[Ross J]

Re: Hydrofoils

Bought my present boat in '95' and the first thing I did was fit a Doelfin. Excellent result. I couldn't believe it! No more cavitation or porposing. Try it you'll see the outcome is great.<br />My boat is a 5m Pelin with 85hp Johnson.<br />Ross