Nozzle Wedges...

[Ibanez540r]

Can someone give an explanation as to how/why a nozzle wedge works on a VTS pump?

From my understanding a wedge changes the angle on the pump to modify the attitude that the ski rides increasing performance. However, wedges are sold for pumps with VTS. VTS does the exact same thing. Wouldn't VTS eliminate the need for a wedge or override its effect???

I've got to be missing something...

 

[seadoosnipe]

In a way....

Can someone give an explanation as to how/why a nozzle wedge works on a VTS pump?

From my understanding a wedge changes the angle on the pump to modify the attitude that the ski rides increasing performance. However, wedges are sold for pumps with VTS. VTS does the exact same thing. Wouldn't VTS eliminate the need for a wedge or override its effect???

I've got to be missing something...

In a way, you've kinda got it right, with one exception. Understanding how friction on your hull holds the ski's speed down, is the first thing to understand. If you know, when you use the VTS, your actually causing the thrust off your nozzle to lift more and more of your hull off the waters surface, then you got it.

Now, this wedge works best on your larger skis. If your VTS has your nozzle all the way up, then hypothetically, you still have a foot and a half at the intake grate creating heavy drag on the hull. The wedge will actually allow you to lift more of that area of your hull out of the water, creating less drag and adding a bit to your speed.

For a lot of skis, the wedge really doesn't have a big affect. At least not one that can justify the extra cost of buying it.:cheers:

 

[stickshift69]

The wedge will make at 1-2mph gain on the bigger 4stroke machines.

 

[dlowings]

Is the wedge a DIY project, any special tools ?

 

[JoeZ]

Installation instructions:
http://www.rivamotorsports.com/instructions/rs23050.pdf

These are sold at PWCMuscle.com discounted.

2 Degree Pump Wedge 255/215/185

 

[seadoosnipe]

Diy....

Is the wedge a DIY project, any special tools ?

Yes, the nozzle wedge is something anyone with basic mechanical skills can do. You can also follow the link provided by Joez and you'll find a lot more information on the nozzle wedge use.

Be sure you don't confuse a nozzle wedge and extension. The extension will actually set your pump back a few more inches but you'll have to change out your shaft.....:cheers:

 

[red2blue]

It was explained to me this way...

picture a length of pipe joined to a 45* bend and then to another length of pipe. The over all change in direction of flow is 45* from the original.

now, this time....a length of pipe is joined with a 22.5* bend a short length of pipe and another 22.5* bendand another length of pipe....the over all change in direction is 45*...however....because the changes of direction are more gradual in the example with the two smaller bends...there is less loss of velocity.

Less loss of velocity equals more speed.