balanced performance

[splax]

Hello.
I have read that using the aft water tank, or having it with a significant amount of water in it, will cause the 34 to squat in the water, especially motoring. I have also read that some have equipped their boat with a windlass, larger anchor, and greater length of chain adding an appreciable amount of weight to the bow. I have not read of the performance issues this has brought about.
My questions are what performance issues does the addition of an extra 100 pounds on the bow cause, and would the 200+ pounds of water in the aft tank offset this, causing the boat to sit lower along the design waterline with balanced performance both under sail and motoring?

 

[RichH]

Generally for all boats, adding weight to the bow or stern will increase 'hobby-horseing' when in waves. The added weight in the ends causes an increase in momentum of the pitching, causing both the bow and stern to more deeply 'plunge' and bury into waves.
The best place to have weight is near the boat's center of rotation ... usually quite near the 'middle', not the ends.

A reasonable solution: For a large stern or bow tank, there's no requirement to always keep such full (heavy) and 'topped off'; just keep it filled with what you 'need' + some reserve. ;-)

 

[kloudie1]

I think Claude Auger would be good to hear from on this one. He has a windlass and has done extensive cruising with his 34, so has probably used his aft tank a good bit.
I have noticed that the rear tank weight affects speed; it is worse when not heeled. If I go out for a few days, I will fill the aft tank and use it first.. otherwise it stays empty.

 

[Richard Bryer]

I always use the aft tank first, but you probably wont notice the weight that much, a heavy passenger changing sitting position could have as much effect. It holds about 250 lbs when full.

 

[Dan Johnson]

Being one that's pointed out the weight in the stern from a filled aft water tank, I don't use my aft tank at all, but do keep the midship tank full to offset the H34's starboard heel at rest.