Swim platform and rear thruster removal in 27 IB

[tranmkp]

Let me just throw this out, I just bought 1 2015 R27 - first powerboat (Albin 27 will not count) I come from a sailboat background so I am sensitive to weight and location of weight. The marina I'm in charges by the foot - I have a 28 foot slip and I can put up tp a 31' in it - the 27 measures out at 30 feet. Removing the platform will save money .
Back to the matter at hand - weight aft. I am thinking removing the platform and rear thruster and batter would be significant - I've never used a rear thruster and have no inclination to ever use one - getting rid of it and the battery makes sense to me - additionally it would allow me to install larger span trim tabs.

So, anyone ever considered this??

 

[GaylesFaerie]

I'm curious why you think you need more trim tab area? Removing the swim platform will move the center of gravity for the boat forward, which I would think reduces some of the need for trim tabs. I do find the stern thruster less effective than the bow thruster *but* very effective in spinning the boat about its access in tight docking situations either coming or going. Removing the platform and thruster may save money in the short run with a smaller slip cost (if that is how they charge you) but I would think will also devalue the boat quite a bit should you ever decide to sell it. Something to consider. HTH, GF

 

[tranmkp]

your right about the value of the boat being affected - I would install them back prior to selling. Trim tab was after a long discussion with a Linco rep - bottom line is you get better results with slower boats with more span that chord. Rear thruster has to go to mount 24"x12" tabs. Also there was a leak from the rear thruster from one of the thru bolts (hard to tighten you should check) leaking in to the bilge

 

[knotflying]

Well, to each his own. How is your docking without the thruster. Granted they are not very efficient with high winds and strong current, but great in tight places. Don't take this wrong, but with all the money for the boat and other expenses is saving additional slip fee really making a difference. Maybe eat one less meal out per month. Losing a swim step and thruster would not be my choice to save money.

 

[tranmkp]

Actually my docking with a single screw is pretty good - bear in mind it was a Beater Albin 27 (12k) and not a 100k+ Ranger 27 - bumps and booboos were no big deal on the Albin.

Yes the diff is about 80 bucks a month - will put it on the back burner for a while.