Gel is the way to go if you can afford to... You can make a ride plate that works great... I made one for my Galaxie and it worked out great, real cheap to do too.
I'm going to put a ride plate and shoe on my 69 tahiti with a berk drive but new to boats but learning. Is there anything I need to know before I start and is it best to buy a ride plate or can I make one. also I know what a shoe is I think but not to sure what it is. I am trying to get the boat to ride higher in the water ( less boat in the water) am I on the rite track the drive is stock wright now but also will be putin a droop and placedeverter on it. Also going to paint it this winter is it best to paint first or do the work and paint later. also is it ok to paint a boat or do I need to gel coat. thanks Eric
Gel is the way to go if you can afford to... You can make a ride plate that works great... I made one for my Galaxie and it worked out great, real cheap to do too.
Start with a droop and diverter. You will be surprised how much it will free the boat up. It worked wonders on my old Crusader.
Do your'e self a favor. sraight-edge the bottom and see how much of a hook is in the back 6-8 inches of the bottom. ride plate will eliminate the hook problem to a certain extent. but only at WOT. Then ask what you want the boat for. Jet-o-vators are cool, makes a real cool rooster but actually helps the MPH less than actually getting the bottom straight first. FYI and my 2 cents. M
cool I think I will do that didnt think of that thanks
Is the "ride plate and shoe" the plate under the bowl, and the adjustable mount for the plate? I've got a 12JE, and I see some adjustment screws on the trailing edge of the plate. Pics anyone?
Jet guy isnt your Tahiti a 16 footer also??
No it is a 18 ft. it is not a great speed hull but I still think it looks cool
Is it black right now? I think I remember seeing pics of it...mine isnt great for high speed, but it will certainly pin you to the seat!! I'm not too concerned with top speed numbers though, as 70 in enough for me (in this hull)
Yes it is black for now but it will be white ( or gray) yellow and purple next summer. I am happy with it I think 70 is ok for now but I like the way it runs in the chop and the price was right.