www.iFourWinns.com

I have just finished a thorough restoration of a 1992 225 Sundowner with a 5.8 Litre OMC Cobra including a complete new interior, rebuilt engine and rebuilt lower gearcase. Prior to this boat I had a 1989 205 Sundowner with the same engine and I have been a long time user of OMC products. Despite what some claim, I have had no trouble getting parts here in Canada. My current sterndrive had hydrofoil fins mounted to the cavitation plate when I bought the boat. I have not remounted these as (a) I am not certain as to how effective they are versus trim tabs and (b) I am not crazy about their look nor do I necessarily want to drill holes in my drive. Over the years I have seen these mounted on all manner of boats and always thought they were more gimmick versus what their manufacturers claim. If anyone can comment on your experience in using them I would love to hear from you.

Rick C

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1992 225 Sundowner

I have used hydrofoils on both my boats. Just recently I removed it from my boat and seem to prefer it off. It does help with planing quicker without a doubt but for top speed and turning it seem to put a strain on the drive. Turning is where I noticed the impact the most. I may put it back on when I start pulling people around the lake but will try it without it first. If you like the way your boat performs keep it off but if you have a fully loaded boat and can't get on plane you may consider putting it on.

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'96 200 Horizon 5.8l VP/SX

Thanks for your input, you have confirmed what I thought. After putting some time on the boat I may elect to go with trim tabs to improve ride, performance and economy. At least with tabs you have the flexibility of infinite adjustment.

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1992 225 Sundowner

Welcome Rick, always nice to see new SD owners here. Lets see some pics of this restored SD!

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1996 205 Sundowner DLX
5.0FL Volvo SX Cobra
Tow Veh: 2012 Nissan Frontier Pro-4X

there is no substitute for adjustable trim tabs

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"Changes In Latitudes, Changes In Attitudes "

1996 238 Vista dlx "Casper's Toy Too"
2006 5.0GXI w/closed cooling, DP-sm 1.95 drive
Previous boat:
1998 Sundowner 205