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Message board > Engines > 50hp added to my Hardy 18 do I need to add ballast

Message 5 of 5
Posted by member Alan Green on Tuesday 2 August 2016

Thanks Phil. I am adding additional weight as I go along. It is the sensitivity that I am trying to get away from as the boat was far to light on the steering for the grandchildren. I am getting there, slowly. I apologise for the delay in replying but I was having a good time.

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Message 4 of 5
Posted by member Phil Sanderson on Tuesday 5 July 2016

Hi Alan, I have the same outboard fitted to my Nav. Experimented last year with weight - basically I was using a 20l fuel tank - it made a bit of difference but I never quite got away from positioning people at the bow to get on the plane if I had 3 on board. So I went for the trim tab option this year and have been pleased with the outcome but does get some getting used to as it can be very sensitive. Phil

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Message 3 of 5
Posted by member Alan Green on Monday 4 July 2016

Thanks for the prompt reply. I do need to add ballast. This has been confirmed by Hardy.

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Message 2 of 5
Posted by member Simon Kidd on Monday 4 July 2016

Hi Alan. A little weight forward won't hurt. The Honda is a light engine for the size so you shouldn't need too much. Maybe try a 20kg bag of sand or similar - or maybe a few spare water conatiners filled - always good to have usable ballast! In the earler 18's it was possible to fit an Aux 4 or 5hp longshaft outboard under the forward berth, but the later ones with the moulded interior seem to preclude this. Best Regards Simon.

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Message 1 of 5
Posted by member Alan Green on Monday 4 July 2016

I have just fitted a new Honda 50hp BF50D to my Hardy 18 Nav will I need to add some ballast at the bow, she looks low in the stern???????

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