placement of skid fin

[nlwildcat22]

I have an 11′ Clarkcraft replica 50’s racing runabout. The problem with it is the tendency to skid (slide sideways) through turns. I have what I think to be a vintage aluminum skid fin made for this type of application. It measures 13" by 5". The boat is not a hydroplane and the skid fin is not the type used on a hydroplane. My question is, where along the keel line should this piece be installed? Should it be used at all? I’m thinking either the linear center or possibly the center of gravity. Suggestions from knowledgeable folks would be appreciated.

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[bh]

Traditionally they were placed about 4′ fwd of the transom on the centre line. As racers began to raise their motors, some found turbulence from the fin cauised cavitation , so they moved it about a foot off centre to the left, as in NA we always turn left. Problem for cottage/river racers is the boat will not turn to the right very well , and turbulence will affect the prop in right turns.
For hobby use, and since u are not concerned with every last mph , I would attach one or two ‘skid rails’ , ie pieces of hardwood, maybe 2"x 2" or so, along the bottom that would help steering some and make it much easier to trailer and beach.
Your choice. PS; -that fin may be a bit big ?

[wiscoboater]

Absolutely love that boat and motor combo. The Martin 200 is at the top of my "motors I must have before I die" list. I agree with bh, that fin is to large for the combo.

[chinewalker]

I concur on the skid rail idea. Makes for easier launch and retrieval, too, as the fin has a nasty habit of snagging whatever you’re pulling the boat up on…

[nlwildcat22]

Thanks for the input. I’ll try the wooden rail first. Looks less likely to cause major problems.

[Pondrocket]

Wildcat22

When I built my 14′ Zip I installed a wooden skeg 2′ aft of the transom and about 4′ long works well at the high point around 2 1/2" then tapered. What ever you choose make sure it’s compatible with what you need and your trailer set up for loading.

Travis

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Travis
AOMCI VP Communications
AOMCI Webmaster
webmaster@aomci.org

[jw-in-dixie]

My 8′ runabout used to slide all over the lake until I put this 2" x 8" ski fin on it. Cured the problem.
Located for left turning, but will turn right at less speed.

I think the fin you showed is from an old slalom ski, and too big. It doesn’t take much. Good luck. 😀

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