Hydroslide Min speed and power needed?

[Bunnerrabbit]

I just got a 16ft alu bass tracker. I was just wondering if I can pull anything to have a little fun? Its just got a 35 mercury 1987 has a top speed of only 26mph I plan to get a stabalizer for the motor witch might get me out of the water quicker. Any sugestions?

 

[Rocnat4]

Re: Hydroslide Min speed and power needed?

Assume you are referring to a Hydroslide Kneeboard? You dont need something to pop you right out of the water for kneeboarding as gentle easy starts are needed so the rider can climb up the board and strap in. I kneeboard behind my 26' Rinker cruiser 5.7 merc Bravo II , it's no rocket from the hole shot but the wake rivals many ski boats.<br /><br />Top speeds for a kneeboarded are generally in the 20 range. I would question however whether your motor would keep a constant speed as you really dont have much headroom power. Inconsistent speeds are miserable for the rider!! Also, there is quite a bit of motion from a kneeboard pulling out of the wake and back. You might tend to bog down quickly. You can pretty much forget Skiing or Wakeboarding with your set up. Tubing on the other hand should be ok depending on your load. You can get a quality tube for under $75 from Overtons or Cabelas.<br /><br />Have fun!

 

[FlyBoyMark]

Re: Hydroslide Min speed and power needed?

Bunner...with your low power you need a tow prop(makes a good spare prop too). Drop your pitch on a spare prop at least 1" and 2" would be better. You need a tach, DO NOT OVER REV YOUR ENGINE. Top speed will probaly drop 2-5 mph but hole shots will be great and the towing will be much more steady. Remember......when not towing and lite load you will over rev the engine. Switch back to your regular prop when the boat is being used for other purposes.