tailfins

[boatin]

I have a searay tailfin on my '83 70hp rude. Running a 15' Sportcraft rated for a 110 , so I'm a bit underpowered although it does fine for me. This is a pretty heavy , wide boat. Is this tailfin doing more harm than good? I think I just realized the answer. Take it off and see what the difference is !! It just seems by looking at it that it probably creates a lot of drag. Anyone have any opinions? thanks

 

[JB]

Re: tailfins

Do a search for "hydrofoils", Boatin. <br /><br />Get a cuppajoe first, as you will be here for a while.

 

[MarkAB]

Re: tailfins

If the hydrofoil sits just above the waterline whilst on the plane the drag may not be that bad and you may be down a couple of mph. The trade off between speed and handling is your choice, but as you said take it off, get a gps to measure mph, put it back on and check again. Also try and check fuel consumption.

 

[boatin]

Re: tailfins

Thanks guys. The boat planes out fairly well so I don't need it for that. I wonder if a hydrofoil affects the handling in a turn. Can't see if it is above or below the water. Just need to take it off and see.<br />p.s. Don't have a g.p.s. or a m.p.h. but I can c.m.a. occasionally.