Thx. I'll be around assuming the fish will be around this year...

That all makes sense - thanks for the info. What is your low speed planing threshold now (& before)? Do you notice any downside in scenarios where you want to get the nose up - like running downwind in a bigger down sea swell?

I'm having issues getting my trim tabs to work but my planning speed is a little better than it was before, about 16 mph right now depending on load, sometimes higher if I have it loaded down. It was closer to 18/19 mph before if I remember correctly but that was with ful tabs. I have been running the last month and a half without working trim tabs. I raised the motor one notch but its still too low so I'm hoping that with working tabs and the motor raised to the proper height my planing speed and mpg will drop.

I haven't had any issues with wanting to get the nose up. Its runs/handles well in big seas both head and following.

Good stuff. Your posts & positive results have really changed what I am thinking about for my bracket job. I am definitely leaning towards a hull extension like yours vs a stepped bracket for the lower planing speed & keeping the hull more level coming on & off plane.

If I had to do it again there are a few things I may do differently. I would probably go a little wider on the tub itself but that is a trade-off due to the added weight. Tho I think the bracket could be built a little lighter. Maybe I would feel differently if I had an optimax 250 on the back at 150 less in weight than the verado. I think the boat sits and rides well but there is always room for improvement.

It's good to hear your thoughts on what works & what you would do different.

I've got twin 225 etec's on a Formula 233. The current bracket has basically no flotation. It sits ok at rest, but squats more than I want going on/off plane, and I would like to lower the planing threshold. I'm in the low 20's right now, but it's not very efficient at that speed.

It's better to have the bracket strong and a little on the heavy side... I will foam core some of mine and use epoxy to keep an eye on weight, but I def want it strong. It looks like they did a nice job on yours, and it certainly sits well at the dock.