Hi Everyone- I have a Hobie 18 Tiger that I am using for scientific measurements (anchored, with the mast removed). I would like to add T500s and an autopilot to enable waypoint navigation.
I don’t need it to go fast, 1-2 kts max would be ideal.
According to the Hobie website the Tiger weighs 397 lbs. I assume that weight includes the mast and rigging, which have been removed and replaced with scientific equipment so the overall weight probably hasn’t changed.
My back-of-the-envelope calculations suggest that one T500 on each hull should be sufficient, but these are based on weight alone. I’m concerned that wind drag on the hulls, since there’s a fair amount of exposed surface area, might overwhelm the T500s.
Has anyone here tried to mount T500s on something this large? If so, would you care to share your experiences?