Weighted Centerboard

[Michael Stuart]

Has any Hunter 170 owner (or former owner) changed the centerboard that came with the boat for a weighted centerboard? And has the change made any difference to the stability of the boat? JYSailboats offers a weighted centerboard for the Hunter 170 (they make the 170) for about $300. Before I buy one, I would like to know if it will make any difference. My 170 apparently was made with a centerboard that is lighter than what comes with current model 170s. Heeling is a problem with the 170, and I have been knocked down and the boat turtled. It will never turtle again since Ihave added a mast float. I have added a reef point to my main. If the weighted centerboard will help a bit, I will get it. Thanks for your input.

 

[Brent Wilde]

Let me know what you find out

I have been considering the same modification because of the unanticipated mountain winds that sweep over the lake I frequently sail on. Our 170 hasn't turned over yet, but we've had a couple of VERY close calls. Our boat is a 2000 model, I'm not sure if it has the "light" or "heavy" centerboard, but something needs to be done to make it more stable. Otherwise we love our boat.

 

[jim motley]

centerboard

According to JY, after the 98 model year all boats were equipped with 20lbs in the centerboard which is standard as of now. You can for $350 order one with 60 lbs in the centerboard which according to them takes about 10 minutes to install. They say they prefer the standard arrangement. My wuestion is what difference could 40lbs really make? Thinking of buying a used 2000 model and would like to know what are the good and bad with this boat.