Accelerating with or without TAPS??

[gcalkins]

We have progressed to the point where we are boarding at times with the taps set at 8, i.e. TAPS retracted / bow high / max wake. Some in the boat still prefer a setting of 4 (50%). We are in the 20 to 21 mph range.

I noticed that my 2003, 22V seems to work harder to accelerate with the taps at 8 than at 4 or 0 TAPS. I feel the power train under more stress and it takes the 350 ci / 315 hp motor a little longer to get going.

The situation is eased when I start with the taps at 0, i.e. plate down / bow low, and then retract the taps to max the wake as I approach boarding speed. This puts more work on the Lenco electric trim tab / TAPS actuator, but replacing that down the road seems to be a better option than wear and tear on the power train.

Anyone agree? Or am I off base?

[da.bell]

There have been a few that have suggested it so you are not off base. I don't do it because of the engine that I have and don't want to find the time to do it. I am lazy but IMO, would definitely save you some gas $$$'s.

[chpthril]

First question........Are you running ballast, and if so, how much?

I dont feel that the TAPS in the up position puts any more stress on the drive-train, but can lead to increased prop slippage on hole-shot.

If you're running a lot of ballast, then by all means, put the TAPS down till planed out, then set it to the rider's liking. You may want to consider an ACME prop upgrade regardless.

[laserfish]

If I have a boatload of people, I always start with the taps down to get to speed quicker, with fewer people on the boat, not so much. However, not near as noticeable a difference with my new lower pitch prop. Thanks Acme.

[jmstige]

I noticed that my 2003, 22V seems to work harder to accelerate with the taps at 8 than at 4 or 0 TAPS. I feel the power train under more stress and it takes the 350 ci / 315 hp motor a little longer to get going.

We had experienced similar w/ the ACME 381 that came w/ the boat (2001 23V)

When weighted down - it really had a rough time. After upgrading to ACME 1631, the boat has no problem getting on plane.

I would suggest looking into your prop - I was skeptical at first, but not now...It makes a HUGH difference on the problem you describe.

[Coach]

With Ballast I have to put taps to 1 to get out of the water and then move it up.

Without Ballast I can set it to the taps I need and don't have any issues getting out of the water.

I think as my kids get older and are wakeboarding with ballast I will need to upgrade the prop to the 1631

[gcalkins]

I do not run with any ballast. My prop is an ACME 381 (4 blade, 13.5" dia X 17.5 pitch).

I hesitate to go to a lower pitch since I still barefoot and I use all she's got at the top end. I could try to back down on that speed, I guess.

I think that with the TAPS up, that the stern is digging in a little more so the prop shaft is pointing in the air more instead of down the runway ( more horizontal).

Laser: What prop are you running now and what was the old one?

[zad0030]

I believe you are actually supposed to start with it at 0 then move up once on plane.

[rogersbm82]

I have never had a problem with starting with mine in 8. But I don't go balls out on pulling up a wakeboarder either. Nice, slow and steady. I could see where it would make a difference if you wanted to jerk the rider up like you would a slalom skier though. But IMO there is no need for that on a wakeboard.

[jwanck11]

yeah, for slalom, jody has to give it everything the boat has to get me out of the water with taps on 0 and then move it to 1-2.

For all other when I am driving, I usually do drop the taps to get on plane quickly and then back off.

[Jason B]

Your hand/thumb is already on the throttle/taps lever when you accelerate out anyway--is it really that difficult to just push your thumb into the button a little? I always put it back to 0, mostly just because I don't like the way the boat handles with the Taps anywher but 0.

[gcalkins]

Once again, thanks to the board for the feedback.

I'm going to continue to accelerate at '0' and dial in the requested wake at or near speed.

Gee, that was a Tige' idea, wasn't it?

[dogbert]

Once again, thanks to the board for the feedback.
I'm going to continue to accelerate at '0' and dial in the requested wake at or near speed.

Good plan. I do this all the time. It saves gas. I'm always adjusting the TAPS plate to balance against passenger placement and rider speed. There's no
one setting for TAPS. That's why it's adjustable.

Gee, that was a Tige' idea, wasn't it?

Nah, I'm sure the other guys thought of it first