Jack Plates:
So I have read some different threads about jack plates which leave me wondering what would be the best jack plate for my set up and if I would even benefit from installing one. I see there are many different manufactured jack plates in both manual and hydro adjust.
Hydraulic Steering:
Is hydraulic steering generally safer when working correctly and matched properly to the boat and horse power rating? I ordered a Sea Star Pro hydro Steering kit and have begun the install. The old cables were always very hard to operate “very stiff” and dangerous as well because if I ever let go of the wheel under power the boat would hook a hard right turn. It happened once and it was scary enough that I never made the mistake of letting go of the wheel under power ever again. This was my first boat and it was purchased used with no documentation or literature.
Hydro Foils:
Would I benefit from using a hydro foil and if so what kind of hydro foil would be a good fit. I have seen home made hydro foils out of thin gauge aluminum like found on street signs. They are very thin and strong so in theory they would produce less drag. I also read that Hydro foils are suppose to ride up out of the water when on plane. Is that at any speed or only when on plane at WOT?
Prop:
I don’t know what size and pitch prop I have at the moment. It looks factory as far as I can tell. I know it’s stainless steel. The Suplimental service manual I just purchased suggests starting with a 26 and 28 is the largest prop suggested by Suzuki.
Keel Protection:
I have been wanting to instal some type of keel protection. I have got several little nicks and chips on the keel from running around in the Stockton Area Delta as well as from beaching the boat. Will keel gaurdes slow the boat or decrease performance in any way noticeable? If they are good to use who makes the best keel guard?
This is all I can think of at the moment. I’ll be redoing the seats, carpet and gel coat later once I get the boat dialed in.