Tests and Evaluations

Editor's Note: This article was originally published in 2002, however I felt that it is a very informative source for those of you that are interested in the Tunnel Boat Design Program. The current version is 7.15, and the latest enhancements to this fantastic software now include full vee-hull design capability. The full list of version 7.15 of the Tunnel Boat Design Program can be viewed here.

With winter fast approaching, boaters’ thoughts turn to winterizing and the dull, boat-less months ahead. It is during these months that we take the time to reevaluate our rigs, and think about changes for the next season. Many of us think of ways to extract every last ounce of performance from our rigs as we wait for the warmer weather.

Fortunately, ...

The importance of trimming the engine or drive unit in a performance boat is well-known. The trim angle affects the overall running attitude of the boat, and in a high performance application, proper trimming is crucial for maximum performance and safety.

For the above reasons, high performance boats generally have the trim controls situated in a location where it is most accessible, without the driver having to look for them. Since performance-minded boaters are always adjusting the drive unit trim angle, a common location for mounting the trim switches has been on the steering wheel itself. ...