Had my first shot on the water with my Shetland hobby last Friday at troon. Got boat in the water no probs and maneuvered out the marina no probs and had a play about for about 30 mins. I can't help but think my boat feels very light at the front, maybe I just need time to get used of it but I'm tempted to try some weight up in the front of the cabin. Is this a good idea?
Had a bit of drama getting boat back on the trailer due to the wind but eventually got there.
Also looking to purchase a some rope, any ideas of best place ?
Thanks James
First shot of my hobby
-
Deleted User 5743
Re: First shot of my hobby
What engine do you have, and can it be trimmed? Can you describe where you carry your fuel etc?
On my F4 it's very heavy with fuel at the stern (2x 30l tanks). I need to install a fresh water tank and it will probably go right up in the bow, I don't think it's wise to add weight for the sake of it but if you can balance the boat with what you have to carry that's a good start.
On my F4 it's very heavy with fuel at the stern (2x 30l tanks). I need to install a fresh water tank and it will probably go right up in the bow, I don't think it's wise to add weight for the sake of it but if you can balance the boat with what you have to carry that's a good start.
-
mcinallygsxr
- Posts: 7
- Joined: Fri Jul 01, 2016 7:58 am
Re: First shot of my hobby
75hp mariner, fuel tank at rear, two fat blokes on board,
Not sure I have anything to move forward, still got my aux engine to fit as well.
Not sure I have anything to move forward, still got my aux engine to fit as well.
-
Deleted User 5743
Re: First shot of my hobby
Should fly with that on the back of its got the right prop. Does it have power trim?
Not sure if it's a planing hull or if you've got experience/have done the rya powerboat course but my f4 does feel very different once she's planing.
My issue is a lack of power and too much weight in the wrong place, I'm changing prop pitch and having hydrofoils fitted to the engine in the hope it'll get her planing quicker with a bit more control over the trim.
Not sure if it's a planing hull or if you've got experience/have done the rya powerboat course but my f4 does feel very different once she's planing.
My issue is a lack of power and too much weight in the wrong place, I'm changing prop pitch and having hydrofoils fitted to the engine in the hope it'll get her planing quicker with a bit more control over the trim.
-
mcinallygsxr
- Posts: 7
- Joined: Fri Jul 01, 2016 7:58 am
Re: First shot of my hobby
Yes have power trim, yeah big battery/engine/fuel tanks all at rear doesn't help. Looking forward to more time in boat and getting it setup to suit me.
-
Deleted User 5743
Re: First shot of my hobby
You'll never be done but the tinkering is what it's all about. I've only had mine in the marina for a few months and am awaiting a repair on the engine so I'm certainly not anywhere near having mine sorted but it'll get there.
I just buy my rope from my local chandlery, probably not the cheapest but it's a use it or lose it type deal, their advice has been invaluable.
I just buy my rope from my local chandlery, probably not the cheapest but it's a use it or lose it type deal, their advice has been invaluable.
Re: First shot of my hobby
We have the same issue with the 500. I've been looking into trim tabs which should help to raise the back end and help to plane quicker.
Spotted the Smart trim tabs - only about £130 and the reviews are all good... may be the next thing on the list.
I'm not convinced with hydrofoils in my case - I'm sure they work but reluctant to rely on the engine to lift the boat, putting more load on the transom.
Spotted the Smart trim tabs - only about £130 and the reviews are all good... may be the next thing on the list.
I'm not convinced with hydrofoils in my case - I'm sure they work but reluctant to rely on the engine to lift the boat, putting more load on the transom.
-
Deleted User 5743
Re: First shot of my hobby
My only concern with those is having no control when underway if you need it. For me the F4 is really just to see if I want to stay with costal boating or not so proper trim tabs are an investment Indint really want to make.
Re: First shot of my hobby
Very true, this is the big limitation. If I get round to purchasing a set I'll let you know the verdict.
It would be great to see some pics of your hobby mcinallygsxr!
It would be great to see some pics of your hobby mcinallygsxr!
-
Deleted User 5743
Re: First shot of my hobby
As will I when my engine is eventually fixed and I've had the foils fitted.