Re: IPS hull on an SSV14
Lund really offers a lot of models and there is some real overlap between them...I keep expecting that some day they will simplify their lineup but it still hasn't happened...
The SSV line is really their "heavy duty" basic fishing boat while the WC is a little lighter, a little smaller, and a bit less expensive. Over the last 10 years they have continued to beef up the WC's with heavier construction to the point were they are now the basic equal to the S-series from a few years ago (which were replaced by the SV's, then the SSV's). Even the older Lakers and Rebels used that hull before the IPS movement.
Going from memory, the fundamental differences between the SSV-14 and the WC-14:
Horsepower rating: 35 SSV, 25 WC
Splash well: Included on SSV, not available on WC.
Seating: the two rear seats are walk thru on the SSV while only the rear is split on the WC. I think there is more storage room under/behind the rear seats for gas tanks and batteries on the SSV (you can get 2-6 gallon cans and a battery back there).
The SSV is about 5" deeper at the bow and along the sides compared to the WC.
Now, the hull:
The IPS hull is a true Deep-V design but incorporates flared chines and a flat spot on the bottom of the hull at the transom to facilitate better flow to the motor. The full V-shape means that the boat will be able to cut heavy chop and waves better. The flared chines help to provide lift to enable a reasonable sized motor to still plane it out with a decent load. They are trying to strike a compromise b/t smooth running in waves and max top speed in calm conditions.
The hull on the WC is what Lund calls a "Traditional" hull. Some might call it a semi-Vee while others might call it a modified V. It is NOT a deep-V where the V shape extends from stem to stern. Instead, the V starts and the bow and gradually transitions to a flat hull bottom at the transom. Such hulls plane easily and give you a flatter floor inside the boat but give up a little bit when it comes to running balls out in heavy seas. In some case you might find yourself backing off the throttle to dip the bow back down a little to cut the waves.
We used to run a 15 hp motor on an old S-14 (dead ringer for the new WC-14) with 2 adults and 2 young kids and it planed well enough for our purposes. The cost delta between the two series of boats is pretty big so if you typically venture onto rough water (big northern lakes) you would be wise to pop for the SSV. If you are more of a fair weather fisherman or don't mind taking it easy in rough weather the WC would be entirely adequate and perfectly safe.
That said, the older WC's (say 10 years ago) were quite a bit lighter so if you buy used make sure you know what you're getting into. Now even the aluminum thickness is the same (from memory) as the premium SSV series.
If it was my money, I'd go for the SSV for a few reasons...The splash well is a big one to me since I am a backtroller and it keeps you from having to bail as often if you're taking water over the stern (plus, it is a handy junk storage tray for marker buoys, sinker containers, etc). And, the extra depth in the bow and sides can make the difference between having a wet butt and staying dry on a windy day.
and - if your budget and needs allow - the 16' version will be a little more roomy (between the seats) and will be more attractive to future buyers when you go to sell.
Finally, the SSV will hold its value better amoung people "in the know" on Lunds versus the WC or A series since it is a "premium" type of boat.
With either boat, opt for the 20" transom. And get a 25 hp motor if your budget and situation allow. Even on a 16 footer a 25 is perfect for these simple boats.
If you were to have a drag race of two identically equipped boats - one an SSV, the other a WC - I'd bet on the WC as being a touch quicker and faster since it is not a true deep V. The SSV would shine in rough conditions and might be a touch more stable at rest since it is wider in the stern at the bottom due to those chines. Give and take.
Whew, long winded...
Your mileage may vary.
Best of luck!
Steve
I employed the same strategy when I got my '79 SS. Gotta get the boat before the mortgage kicks in
