Building a Texas sled 18 (inverted V) need advice on improving turning ability

Discussion in 'Boat Design' started by Vundu, Jun 11, 2024.

  1. Vundu
    Joined: Jun 2024
    Posts: 1
    Likes: 0, Points: 1
    Location: Zambia

    Vundu New Member

    Hi, I'm currently building a modified version of the Boat Builders Central Texas Sled (TX18). I've increased all dimensions by 10%, so now have a 20ft boat (designer has approved this). The hull is heavier than designed due to more glass layers and the consol design. I'm planning to run a 140HP Suzuki (at our altitude it's closer to 115hp I'm told).

    As the hull is very flat towards the stern I am beginning to worry about the possibility of blowouts if I need to make an emergency turn at speed.

    I am looking for advice and if this is likely on an inverted V, and if so what might I do to modify the hull to reduce the chances of this happening. I was considering a pair, or more, of strakes, but am unsure the best approach to this. Length, positioning etc.

    Any help and advice would be greatly appreciated.
     
  2. DogCavalry
    Joined: Sep 2019
    Posts: 3,343
    Likes: 1,685, Points: 113
    Location: Vancouver bc

    DogCavalry Senior Member

    I suggest you build and try it before modifying anything. Explore the performance and limitations of your boat before fixing a problem that probably doesn't exist. Aggressive steering at high speed is dangerous in every vehicle there is.
     
  3. fallguy
    Joined: Dec 2016
    Posts: 8,031
    Likes: 1,818, Points: 123, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: usa

    fallguy Boat Builder

    DC brings a good point. If you turn sharp enough to need strakes for tracking; you are probably driving poorly.
     
  4. DogCavalry
    Joined: Sep 2019
    Posts: 3,343
    Likes: 1,685, Points: 113
    Location: Vancouver bc

    DogCavalry Senior Member

    Certainly worthwhile for you to read the sea sled information thread.
     
  5. Barry
    Joined: Mar 2002
    Posts: 1,944
    Likes: 566, Points: 113, Legacy Rep: 158

    Barry Senior Member

    Probably best to call Boat Builders Central and find out if they have had any issues.
     

  6. fallguy
    Joined: Dec 2016
    Posts: 8,031
    Likes: 1,818, Points: 123, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: usa

    fallguy Boat Builder

    He got crickets there. I told him there was a Seasled cult here.
     
Loading...
Forum posts represent the experience, opinion, and view of individual users. Boat Design Net does not necessarily endorse nor share the view of each individual post.
When making potentially dangerous or financial decisions, always employ and consult appropriate professionals. Your circumstances or experience may be different.