Beautiful sunny day with a strong onshore breeze. Considered the model would drift inshore if it failed, so decided to try it.
The water surface was too rough to accurately establish if the ballast changes were correct, but if not they seem close.
The waterjets work well. Plan to try a 2S battery next time, as think 3S tends to overpower.
Rough water made it difficult to examine the waterjet action. There is plenty of power and the bow wave, even on one jet, is higher than scale.
The foredeck was loose fitting, allowing considerable water ingress.
Had adopted the suggestion from another modeler to fit a coffer dam ahead of the jets. This contains jet leakage in the stern area where it can be drained by the bilge pump.
However, water splashed under the foredeck collecting in the hull forward of the dam, into an area where the pump does not reach.
Was surprised just how much water had collected in the forward hull, significantly affecting the waterline.
Also, could not confirm if the impellor rotation was correct. I like to use the Tx โElevonโ steering function, although this tends to disguise the rotation commands. Determining rotation even when the propellers can be seen is rotating is misleading, when hidden it becomes even difficult.
Tried adjusting the Tx functions, but the wind and waves obscured the effect. Back on the bench determined one was reversed. Now corrected.
Would like to retain the convenience of Elevon control where both screws are controlled by one Tx lever. Wondering though if it would be better to control waterjets by the more traditional twin lever set-up. Planning the next test to explore this.
One problem with waterjets is that there is minimal reverse function. Reverse is usually achieved by redirecting the flow using a reverser bucket.
Also, the control reaction to reverse the model with the lever does not work. Trying to think of a way to overcome this.
Currently, the reverse bucket needs selecting first and then motor forward again. No longer intuitive. With practice this might become easier to remember, hope so.