420 Passage questions

[DRhoads]

I purchased a H 420 Passage (2004) last year and have been sailing her all season. I have a few questions for other 420 owners. Nothing critical just curious about a few items.
1. Around 7kts the stern seems to squat and rides very low, actually below the water. The ladder and surrounding area are awash. Happens both under sail or power. There is very little weight in that aft compartments other than a few lines and cleaning supplies. I also have very little water in the aft tank.
Normal or something amiss?
2. Anyone retrofit a bow thruster and have suggestions? Considering adding one but not sure if a) there is plenty of room forward to accommodate a through hull version. If so where, how was it installed? b) is external better for space and performance c) any noticeable speed loss?
3. Anyone fly an Asymmetrical? Where do you attach the sheet blocks?
Thanks for any advise/comments

 

[Sailgunner]

Yes they ride low in the water with deck joint under the water. My joint leaked on my 410 (same hull as yours) so I had to clean it out and rebed it.

 

[Rick]

Yes, its normal for the stern to be awash. Remember under the bed is a 60 gallon fuel tank. Thats 430 pounds not counting the hardware. Holding tank plus aft water tank is also under the bed. Thats potentially another 400 plus pounds. Keeps the swim bridge clean though!

Yes we fly an asym. We hook the sheet blocks to the lower eye on the stern rail seat where the lifeline connects. Also use a small bungie to keep the block aligned. Dont have a pic sorry. We only run one sheet cuz we decided jibing it is just a disaster waiting. Easier to just douse and then hoist. Course there are only two of us and we are pushing 60.

Bow thruster would be nice. No thoughts there.

Cheers
We love ours. Bang for the buck!

 

[M_Michaels]

I have a Hunter 380. I bought and installed an Exturn 24 volt external bow thruster. No speed loss. Plenty of power to spin the boat as needed for docking or leaving the dock. Two 12 volt batteries in the bow area. I would not have a sailboat without one.

 

[Hardware]

I have a 420, yes it squats in the rear. I have a heavy dinghy and davits hanging off the back too. I have 275' of chain in the bow, it helps a little. Overall it isn't any big deal to me.
I also fly asym, I have used the pad eye on the rail about halfway back.

 

[DRhoads]

All, Thank you for your replies. Yes it does keep the swim bridge clean, one benefit. I was concerned that the rails weren't strong enough to handle an Asym but it appears to be alright. I will attempt it this weekend after double checking the bedding of the rails.
"jibing it is just a disaster waiting" not the easiest thing to do and I too douse if the wind is below 5kts.
Again thanks to all.