Now less stable

[BaldLoonie]

Hi, new here. <br /><br />I have a 1988 Wellcraft 17' v hull with 3.0 Merc. Had it since 1999. At the end of 2002, I hit something and tore off the keel from the lower unit. That was repaired. Dealer says all OK. Boat used to be very stable in turns. Now, especially after running a while, it really leans on a turn to the point I get nervous. Doesn't seem to be taking on water at all and I can't come up with any cause for the leaning. Any guesses? Thanks.

 

[Jdeagro]

Re: Now less stable

When they repaired the lower unit, what else did they do? Did you add a hydrofoil, change the motor height, change the trim angle, etc.?

 

[DJ]

Re: Now less stable

Does the steering wheel want to pull in one direction or the other?<br /><br />If so, adjust the trim tab, above the prop. Adjust the trailing edge toward the direction of the pull.

 

[BaldLoonie]

Re: Now less stable

Thanks for the replies. Nothing was done intentionally that I know of but possible that height or angle of lower unit changed. No hydrofoil. Boat does pull to the left if trimmed up, don't recall a pull with bow down. I'll look at the trim tab. <br /><br />What's got me scared is the "marine surveyor" the insurance company sent out to look at the damage. He declared the boat unsafe due to lots of tiny cracks in the gel-coat of the hull. Said it could break apart at any time. The insurance co. paid for the lower unit then dropped me. 2 marinas have checked the boat out and said it is fine, just cracks in the gel from use.

 

[18rabbit]

Re: Now less stable

The marine surveyor should have lightly bounced a small hammer (or equivalent) on the exterior of the hull every couple of inches, all around the damaged area. It is possible to both feel and hear damages this way. If he did, I would go with the surveyor’s evaluation. If he didn’t, there is no way to know…it might be a case of the surveyor providing the cheapest route for the insurance company (don’t know what it would be) or it might be an act of C.Y.A.