Whale tails on volvo outdrives

26imperial boat

Recruit
Joined
Jan 16, 2012
Messages
3
Hi everyone, this has probably been addressed but need help. I own a 26 ft imperial(stop laughing guys)..anyway I would like to look at putting whale tails on the out drives one is 275 and other 280...yes I already will hear it from everyone but I own it and now have to work with it.

What is a very good brand to buy, and can I expect an improvement with getting on plane a little quicker. I did get new larger and wider trim, tabs that I will install before the season starts and am wondering if I should put the whale tails. I read the post out here and realize that there are a lot of smart and helpful people.

Thanks everyone
 

Bondo

Moderator
Staff member
Joined
Apr 17, 2002
Messages
71,310
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

Ayuh,.... Welcome Aboard,...

Go with yer trim tabs, 'n forgetabout the whale tails...

Ya get to much stern lift, 'n she'll Plow when on plane....
 

RogersJetboat454

Commander
Joined
Jul 9, 2010
Messages
2,964
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

Hi everyone, this has probably been addressed but need help. I own a 26 ft imperial(stop laughing guys)..anyway I would like to look at putting whale tails on the out drives one is 275 and other 280...yes I already will hear it from everyone but I own it and now have to work with it.

What is a very good brand to buy, and can I expect an improvement with getting on plane a little quicker. I did get new larger and wider trim, tabs that I will install before the season starts and am wondering if I should put the whale tails. I read the post out here and realize that there are a lot of smart and helpful people.

Thanks everyone

Welcome to Iboats.

IMHO work with your trim tabs and forget the "whale tales".
Also, as you are probably aware, the design of the 280 doesn't exactly lend it's self to the instillation of a hydrofoil.
 

26imperial boat

Recruit
Joined
Jan 16, 2012
Messages
3
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

Thanks guys for the help...new to boating...this will be my 3rd season so I need help with most of my issues.
 

jeffnick

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
May 24, 2004
Messages
695
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

I put a Stingray on my 250 outdrive. Had to do some modifications to make it fit, but I sure like the way it makes my boat behave.
http://72land-n-sea.blogspot.com/2011/12/foiled.html
I put a Cobra foil on my last boat and took it off after the first outing. Bottom line for me was you won't know till you try it.
 

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oops!

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 18, 2007
Messages
12,932
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

whale tails are a quick cover up remedy for a larger problem......

trim tabs are the answer preferably.....helm controlled.....

while tails have thier place.......and can correct very specific problems.....in most cases, they just add drag.
 

smokeonthewater

Fleet Admiral
Joined
Dec 3, 2009
Messages
9,838
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

I too suggest steering away from the foils.... by the way..... we don't laugh at people for the brand or condition of their boats here.... About the only way to fall out of favor here is to waste our time by repeatedly asking questions and ignoring the advice.... otherwise, hold your head high and take your place in the fleet :D
 

mike165

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 14, 2011
Messages
196
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

Tried an SE 300 on our 165 no good, put a set of 12x9 Lenco's excellent very precise
 

oops!

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Oct 18, 2007
Messages
12,932
Re: Whale tails on volvo outdrives

About the only way to fall out of favor here is to waste our time by repeatedly asking questions and ignoring the advice....


Baaaa haaaa haaaa.....who exactly are you referring to here smoke?.......no....wait......don't answer that !
 
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