Re: Hydrofoils good or bad?
Hi Dale;
Glad you got in on this.
To Charley;
You will not hear me say much good about hydrofoils as a simple "slap it on and go" product and that is not because we make Smart Tabs. As Dale said they are or should be used as a tool to accomplish specific results in combination with other items, adjustments etc. Hydrofoil technology is valid and proven, but to gain the results you are looking for, you need to design it into the overall picture. If not you will get improvements in one area and deterioration in another. Why? Because the devise is fixed, rigid, non adjustable. When Dale raced the combination of the hydrofoil, the prop, the engine height etc. where all part of the whole picture.
For the everyday boater who is looking for overall improvements in planing, ride, handling, speed, and fuel economy trim tabs are a better solution. Why?
Because they are adjustable. They change the shape of the hull as required, and the hull dictates the overall performance even more than the power plant.
If you only want to help get the boat up on plain, the hydrofoil will be of some assistance, but you will compromise other areas of performance.
Dale is absolutely correct, hydrofoils are a tool that will help you achieve specific results when used in conjunction with other items.