Need Help with ballast install - Prostar 205V

I've been working on installing an automatic ballast system in my 2001 205V and I have a few questions. I'm trying to figure out where to mount my main intake thru-hull, I'd like to keep it as "stock" as possible. I'm planning on running a 1-1/2" thru-hull to a Mastercraft distribution block, which splits into 3 supply lines and 2 discharge lines.

My main question is where do I put the thru-hull and route my main supply hose so it doesn't interfere with servicing the engine? Also, Where do I mount the distribution block? I believe it is mounted in the front passenger side of the engine compartment.

I'm hoping someone can post some pictures of the ballast location in the engine on an older X-star that I could copy the placement of these items. Please provide any advice you can, thanks!

Use Paul's link and it should give you a good idea of how to add ballat on a 205V hull. His may not be exactly stock but gives you an idea of what a good install looks like.

http://www.wakesiderides.com/forums/index.php?showtopic=17225

I used paul's as an example for mine as well. but I have some shots on here somewhere. I used a 2" scupper mounted between the engine and tranny on the passenger side, then put a manifold near the transom and plumbed the 2 together.

Here'e mine with detailed pics. It's an aerator system.

http://www.wakesiderides.com/rides/index.php?page=out&id=2282

Thanks for the input guys! I followed the majority of Paul's install and it was extremely helpful! (thanks Paul!) However I wanted to go with a single intake instead with a manifold like the X-1's use to have (I believe they just redesigned the system this year). DJ, can you send a link of the pictures you have? That sounds the most similar to what I'm looking to do. Also, if anyone has an X1 or older X-star that can post a picture of how the standard ballast is done that would be very helpful as well! Thanks everyone!

Chad I will have pics this weekend, I just finished my install on my 99 x-star. single 1.5 intake and four tsunami fill pumps and four tsunami drain pumps.

not the best pictures, but you will get an idea

http://www.wakeworld.com/MB/Discus/messages/65921/510005.html

DJ, thanks for the pictures!
Brad, I'll look for your pictures this weekend.

Thanks to all that have posted pictures, it's nice to compare how everyone else is doing it to make sure I get it right! I'm just a little nervous about the placement of the hole, I don't want to find out after I drill it that something is in the way or that it interferes with the serviceability of the engine.

I'm still curious to see pics of a 3 pump reversing system with the 3 way distribution block like they used in the x-1's if anyone has picture they can post.

I'm running a 1.5" thru-hull to the distributor and 3/4" lines to to the pumps. Will I be ok using PVC elbows and shut-off valves on the intake or should I spend the extra bucks to go to Brass fittings?

I appreciate everyone's willingness to help out, it makes doing these things on your own a lot less stressful! (I actually found and purchased my boat through this site as well!) I'll post some pictures once I get it completed!

underside view


inside view

this is on the port side near the front of the engine, just behind the the little square indention on this hull; one reason I put it here is so I can later put a paddle wheel for PP in front of that indention. the paddle wheel needs a place with no obstructions in front of it.

hit the button twice

(Message edited by Rich_G on May 29, 2008)

Thanks Rich, it seems like that area is where most people put the thru-hull. I think I'll be drilling tomorrow so wish me luck!

Just thought I'd update this post with my own input for anyone else dealing with this question. I decided to put the hole on the drivers side just in front of the oil filter, based on this diagram I found from someone else's post (this is where my dealer recommended putting it as well).
Here are some pictures that show where I ended up drilling the hole. I'll start a new post with pictures of the rest of the install.

If it's not too late, I'd definately recommend putting in an integrated bow sac too. That hull needs weight up front for a great wake.

I've got a 250 lb side sac under each side in the front (fills to maybe 175 lb each). My ski locker sac overflows into these to fill & Drain. It seems to work pretty good so far. The extra weight up front definitely helps out a ton in this boat!