Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

[amanphoto]

I have a 2005 Monterey 250cr. The boat runs and drives great for the most part. My only complaint is that it is not very stable on plane. With the slightest breeze, it wants to list from one side to the other. I am constantly adjusting the trim tabs. If someone moves while your driving, it lists. The worst is when your crossing another boats wake. It pushes the boat all over. Does anyone have any suggestions on what I can do to stabilize the ride. Different trim tabs?

I've added pics of my transom.

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

I suspect you are over-using the trim tabs. If you need them to get on plane, use them for that, then bring them all the way up. Leave them all the way up until you are at cruising speed and the drive is trimmed right, then you can adjust in tiny amounts them to level the boat from side to side. If you need to level the boat again due to a shift in load,whenever possible adjust them up not down. If you need them down for a smoother ride, do so sparingly.

 

[Another retired guy]

Re: Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

Much of what you are describing sounds normal for a deep V hull they can be very sensitive to side winds and weight movement. Is this a new-to-you boat? First V hull?

 

[Mischief Managed]

Re: Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

The 250CR has 18 degress of deadrise, if memory serves, not too deep. My 25 foot Regal has 24 degrees and does not roll as badly as described, unless the tabs are down too much.

 

[Slip Away]

Re: Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

The 250CR is a typical express, and rides like any of them with 8'6" beam. We owned a 26 foot cruiser for 6 years, did the same thing, it's just something you have to get use to.

 

[amanphoto]

Re: Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

Much of what you are describing sounds normal for a deep V hull they can be very sensitive to side winds and weight movement. Is this a new-to-you boat? First V hull?

No. All my previous boats have been V-Halls. My last one (Wellcraft Eclipse 233 - 16 degree V).

 

[Slip Away]

Re: Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

It's operator error, or just plain inexperience with a high freeboard boat of that size and weight. You will not be able to change the conditions you describe, that is how the boat is supposed to handle. Nothing wrong with the 250CR at all. Enjoy your boat.

 

[amanphoto]

Re: Monterey 250cr stabilization on plane

So If it's operator error, what am I doing wrong? What is the best way to trim this boat?