Running Angle for a 23 SF

[Trey1096]

I’m in the process of redoing my console. It’s the big console on a 23, and in it, I cary 25 gallons of fresh water and 2 DieHard Platinum AGM batteries. For power, it has a single 225 Opti mounted on a 4” jack plate.

Part of the project is replacing the bulkhead that separates the front of the console from the part under the helm. I’ve got an S1000 autopilot and the brains for the system require the unit to be mounted in a vertical position, +/- 5 degrees.

The old bulkhead was installed square with the bottom flange. Since the boat is always operating with a downhill slope from fore to aft, I had mounted the autopilot brain with some shims at the top to give it a bit of tilt. I don’t think the mounting angle ever gave me any issues, but I know it was close to the 5 degrees.

I always intended to measure the angle of the floor when I was on plane and trolling, but of course, I never did. Does anyone know the angle of the floor off level for a 23 CC while on plane and while running at around 5-7 knots?

I know it’s a bit different for each boat, but I’m not building a piano. Right now, I’m thinking about installing the bulkhead with about 5deg forward tilt.

Thanks,

Trey

[Capt Chuck]

Trey

I have the smaller console on my 23'. I also have the S1000 Autopilot. I mounted the pump veritcal position to the bulkhead @ 90* to the deck. The electronic box is also mounted 90* to the deck. It is screwed to a shelf that runs Port /Stbd under the console. I have been running the unit for several years now without a problem. I have no issues either up on plane, crusing speed or at a slow troll. Sometimes just headway speed, I will loose the signal temporary. The pump gets louder at the slow speed (5 knots or less). I don't think you will have any problems should the unit be tilted forward or not.

BTW: Make sure you carry spare batteries for the remote cause when they get low (without warning) you will not be able to operate the unit.

[BigLew]

I believe I read somewhere that the normal running angle for the 23* is about 4 degrees. If that angle is correct, then a couple of washers between the lower edge mounting bolts (compensating for the 4* down to the stern angle) should result in pretty close to verticle when running. Either way, the next time you are out, lay a level on the deck and see how close to true level it is. Take a penny or two and place them accordingly to determine what sort of shim effect you will need. Either that or get yourself a ride in a friend's 23 and check his out. Yours is probably very close.

JMHO - Good Luck!