Topic: Need to start from scratch with my setup!

This topic has 6 replies, 4 voices, and was last updated 11 years, 5 months ago by gdsjr77.

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January 15, 2015 at 1:32 am #291773

gdsjr77
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I have been trying to fix the handling issues with my 2001 Cougar, and I feel its time to start from scratch and would like to know where to start. First off, I am not ashamed to admit that I am fairly new performance bass boats and adjusting the handling has been a learn as I go process. Im not too proud! I have owned the boat for 3 years and the first 2 years it handled like a dream….around 60-70mph. I never took it past that speed because I knew my rookie limits and stayed safe. This year saw so many changes so fast that Im not sure what has caused the boat to have issues. To start, I switched to a 36v trolling motor last February, so now I have an extra 80lbs in the back. My very first trip of the year I blew out the lower unit and now have a used lower with a slightly bent skeg. I was getting a little blow out so I adjusted the vents in the prop to help. It was then that I realized my boat has a nose dance/chine walk that resembles a penguin walking! Its great up to about 60, but after that it starts to dance horrifically. Now, before you ask, I have read some good articles on driving out of chine walk……I have tried and I have let other experienced drivers try to no avail. I have now straightened my skeg (it still has a tiny curve to it, but only noticeable if II point it out). I have adjusted the jack plate, tightened all bolts on the transom and bled the steering. Nothing has helped. If I were starting from scratch, where should I start? Jack plate, prop, weight distribution, prop vents? Lots of options. It has a 6″ slidemaster jack plate and a 26p Trophy prop. Mercury ProXB 250. Thanks for all advice! Glen

January 15, 2015 at 4:06 am #291774

PhilAddison
Participant

First of all the skeg has a curve built into if it is a torquemaster gearcase which Im assuming it is. You might should have left that alone. It also sounds like you have awakened some performance as it is now chinewalking. You have a lot of seat time needed to get to full potential. Whether you balance your load, lower your engine, raise your engine, change props, do whatever, it will not solve the chine walking issue. The only thing that cures chinewalking is learning how to drive! Some of the things that will help you learn how to drive are:Trim down until you get better.Do not try to overachieve.A 4 blade prop such as a Trophy helps and is a little easier to drive.Find someone to help you that knows how to drive. (Sounds like everyone youve had in the boat doesnt know how to drive!) Good luck, have fun, and be careful!

January 15, 2015 at 11:48 am #291775

Rick Collis
Participant

I had a 2001 and a 2002 Cougar that I could not drive at speed. Like you I tried different setups and props before I finally figured it out. My solution was a 4 blade Trophy prop and fill the live wells about 1/2 to completely full. As stated above, not too much trim. Easy to drive with water in the live wells. Good luck.

January 15, 2015 at 2:36 pm #291776

BIGCATTER
Participant

Ive got a 25 pitch 4 blade Trophy in the Garage Sale section . — Make me an offer I cant refuse !! — Just a thought . — Mark

January 15, 2015 at 5:23 pm #291777

gdsjr77
Participant

Thanks BigCatter, you never know! Thanks for the info Rick, I will play with the livewell level next time I am out. Just a little more info, the prop shaft is 4 1/4″ below the pad. Not sure how that compares to others?

January 15, 2015 at 9:21 pm #291778

PhilAddison
Participant

Too low. Go up an inch

January 16, 2015 at 4:54 am #291779

gdsjr77
Participant

Thank you Phil. I may be able to test this weekend and get some more info? Gonna be one cold ride!
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