Cruising Sailors Forum Archive

Port list (not fore and aft)
In Response To: Trim ballast ideas and sources ()

I'm not sure why but the boat has a definite list to port when both water tanks (2 x 150 gallons) are equally filled. With the port tank about half full and the starboard tank full, she sits fairly even. I may need as much as 600 lb. (8 lb/gal x 150 gal / 2 = ~600 lb.).

Options considered:
1. Add lead ballast - haven't found economical source for bricks; melting scrap tire weights etc seems like a lot of effort

2. Add water tank for ballast - purchase tank to fit available space and fill as needed; needs substantial tie downs

3. Move port side batter outboard - I have one 4D sealed battery (~120 lb) that I could shift further to port about two feet; won't make a big difference but would add access room next to the engine

4. Develop a leveling switch - Develop a tilt switch that would close a solenoid valve on the water line from the tank on the high side when the boat lists too far. The water usage would come only from the low side water tank until the switch resets when the boat is level again; who knows how it would work?

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