Posted by Don Dando on November 13, 2002 at 06:52:06:
In Reply to: 3 pt Hydroplane, when to use fins on the bottom? posted by Steve Roffey on November 12, 2002 at 20:55:45:
Yes, Fins are vitally important on a hydro. When the boat is trimmed out and running properly it is riding on a cushon of air with only about 2/3 of the prop in the water. Without a fin on the port sponson, you will have a very difficult time turning. Fins are on the port side because boat races are run on a counter-clockwise course. Don't even think of turning right in a hydro, the fin will flip the boat. I know.... In a race I was forced to make a slight right turn.... Bad mistake! When they hauled me off the course and the ambulance crew examined me, I fortunately was OK !
Don Dando
: Good day.
: i am doing some research on building a hydroplane, along the lines of the Super Spartan. I have noticed that Some folks place a fin at the rear, to the port of the motor, or on the inside of the Port Sponson. Is there a theory behind this? Is it necessary?
: thanks.
: Steve