to add Belly sack or Bow sack in 2001 SAN with 501 Engine.

[Oldmanrider]

I am in the process of upgrading the ballast system in my 2001 SAN with a Python 501. Any suggestions as to whether it is better to add a belly bag or a bow bag. I know it would be easier to plumb for a belly bag but am concerned that with the extra weight of the engine that the bow bag may be worth the extra work. Just as an FYI, if it matters, we both board and surf. As such am also adding an automated bag on the drives’ side stern compartment for surfing. Any thoughts are appreciated.

[WakeSlayer]

RE: to add Belly sack or Bow sack in 2001 SAN with 501 Engin

I would just slap a 400-500 tube bag in there and leave it full. You don't need to even plumb it in, in my opinion. Save the money and the hassle.
That motor weighs an extra 250lbs and sits way out the back. It is actually a pretty good idea to counter balance it when towing. I fill mine once in the spring and drain it when I winterize. Neither my trailer nor my boat lift care. This is in addition to the 600 or so in solid ballast I also leave in the boat.

[Laptom]

RE: to add Belly sack or Bow sack in 2001 SAN with 501 Engin

I'm with WakeSlayer about this... even for cruising with the 501 you want some additional weight in front. And I don't think it will hurt the boat much when you trailer it (or do you trailer it 100miles every weekend?

[WakeSlayer]

RE: to add Belly sack or Bow sack in 2001 SAN with 501 Engin

Even if you do tow a lot, the boat is not going to care about the weight in the locker.

[WakeSlayer]

RE: to add Belly sack or Bow sack in 2001 SAN with 501 Engin

Oldman you always use the term 501. Just FYi, it has one more.

[Oldmanrider]

RE: to add Belly sack or Bow sack in 2001 SAN with 501 Engin

WakeSlayer....Like my age I like to understate....thanks for the input on the bag and the name. Would you recommend any weight in the bow? April in New Hampshire and boat is in and ready to go

[WakeSlayer]

RE: to add Belly sack or Bow sack in 2001 SAN with 501 Engin

I have 2x 70lbs carpeted steel bars in my walkthrough. I have 3 x 40lbs jugs of birdshot in the nose. Rest of my lead is under the seats on the sides, and under the spotter seat. Approx. 250 per side. I have my batteries one per side, as they used to be together on the starboard side. I have messed with a sac in the bow a few times, thinking it will improve my surf wake a bit. Full it messes it up, half full is pretty good depending on how many passengers there are. Not bothering seems to be the easiest and most consistent...
My surf wake is ridiculous.

[N2Orbit]

I use seven 50 pound bags of play sand under the bow cushions. I put them in heavy duty trash bags and then wrap them with black duct tape. They work great don't slide around and make the boat ride much better. I also leave the weight in there year round. A must have with A PYTHON powered boat to counter the extra weight in the rear.