Ski Boat Forum
General Category => General American Skier Discussions => Topic started by: Hellfighter334 on March 05, 2014, 07:32:29 AM
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Anyone have this on their boat? Came on an 84 AS I just picked up. Did any come from factory like this Ron?
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No, we never installed any instrumentation that had "Nautiques" in the bezel, nor did anyone back in 1984 have any form of speed control other than the accurate muscle control of the wrist and forearm. However when speed controls did become available in the mid-nineties we did install them on promo boats as it became a required item and remains a required item for tournament towboats today. The early units were based on speed (from the pitot pick-ups) RPM, and timing magnets placed in the boat guide bouys and sensors in the hull. Then came paddle wheels through the hull to replace the pitots. Now the systems rely on GPS, RPM, and VERY complicated software. All of the speed controls (other than the basic wakeboard types) are designed for Slalom & Jump practice/tournaments within a course, not open water skiing, although they may work there. I have worked closely with some of the top drivers and engineers in this area (they all use the Tanis Drone to test with) and it's a fascinating technical achievement to watch as the current systems respond to virtually every variable you can throw at it.
(did that answer the question?)
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Sure did Ron. I looked under the boat and sure enough. Paddle wheel. Im assuming that isnt stock. I don't need it and it looks brand new. I wonder if I could sell it. Would I have to re glass where the paddle wheel was?
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There is a market out there for these, and as for the hole in the bilge after removing the paddle wheel, I guess it would depend on how well you bilge pump works vs your fiberglass skills 8)
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use it once and you'll keep it installed - cheaper than a divorce lawyer
if you do want to sell it - leave the paddle wheel / housing installed and remove the servo , gauge and head end
also check with perfect pass they may have plug for the paddle wheel housing - then you don't have to fix the hole
the new PP are GPS and do not paddle wheels anymore
Dan T
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use it once and you'll keep it installed - cheaper than a divorce lawyer
if you do want to sell it - leave the paddle wheel / housing installed and remove the servo , gauge and head end
also check with perfect pass they may have plug for the paddle wheel housing - then you don't have to fix the hole
the new PP are GPS and do not paddle wheels anymore
Dan T
I paid a grand for my Perfect Pass Stargazer (GPS not paddle), and after having used it last season, I would have paid two grand. For me, it's easily the best upgrade for any tow boat. If anything, it makes a dandy cruise control.
My 2 cents...
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If the "throttle-control" installed on your boat works well, I would keep the system in its entirety. Serious amateur and professional skiers no longer ski without the assistance of of modern "throttle-control" systems (I don't mention brand names, as I have a modicum of respect for each of the Manufacturers). These systems enhance the skiing of virtually all skiers, beginners through advanced.