Strakes

[BlueLancer]

Curious, on my 36' motorboat built 1962, I have what appears to be strakes running diagonally from the bow in a curve to about 1/3rd of the boats length to the water line. One on each side about 4" across in a triangular shape standing proud about 4".Has been suggested they are for pushing the water away from the boat at speed there by decreasing resistance. Any thoughts anyone.
Reason I ask is I think they are very ugly and am contemplating removing them.

 

[Tranona]

They are spray rails. There to push the bow wave down. They may be there to give some lift to get the boat over the displacement hump - or more likely added after the boat was built because the owner complained about water all over the place - consequence of lean forward bow sections. Not a problem when power levels were low and boats were true displacement, but once power is upped the stern squats and the lean bow throws up spray.

Only way to find out is take them off - but do it in such a way that you can put them back easily!

 

[ccscott49]

Sounds to be definitely spray rails. I know they look a wee bit odd, but they do a useful job, probably best to leave them alone, if you feel you dont need them, when the boat is in the water and in numerous consditions, you can always remove them later

 

[BlueLancer]

Thanks for the comments, One of the spray rails is in dire need of repair, so I think I wil remove both and see how she performs. If there is a significant spray problem I will put them back.