Old Outback Hull Fix

I know this has been gone over alot but I have a couple of questions. I have always wanted to get a revolution but before investing in a new kayak I wanted to put one through the ringers. I recently bought a 2004 Outack and I took it out for the first time today. I was very impressed in the performance of the kayak. It was a bit slow but I usually paddle 15' yaks so this was to be expected. The loss in speed however was well worth having both hands free. This brings me to my questions. I have this patch inside the hull of the yak. Does this mean there was a crack and someone has fixed it? Or could this have been put there to prevent one from happening? (a visual inspection shows no crack). Also, with the patch in place is safe for me to use the turbo fins or because of the age and no warranty should I just use the standard fins that are on it? Thanks for any info. Sorry, for bringing this up again I just don't want to damage the yak (I really like it!)
borrowed this pic from another post but mine looks identical.

To me it looks like the strengthening kit Hobie put out about 4 years ago, I think, to strengthen that area due to some known cracking issues in the mirage drive well. It was, in fact, a preventative measure.

AS far as the turbo fins, I don't think it should cause you any grief as long as they get seated properly. Congrats on the Hobie. The Outback is an incredible kayak, kind of miss mine

Troutbum

If you look closely at that photo and get the chance to look at a newer Outback, you'll see that the newer one is solid "material" to the bottom of the hull. In fact they've got a plastic pin or bolt there to help the plastic fill that area. There were issues of the front pin on the drive unit breaking through or cracking the material. It's now solid and that "fix" you see is to help make the older hull sturdier there to try to prevent that issue. I'd protect it as much as I can and if you do put the turbo's on, remember it can still be a strain on that area. Just don't horse it around or pry on the mounting areas by lifting your butt out of the seat with your legs on the pedals. Think of the torque or pry bar effect you're putting on that particular area if doing that maneuver. If you want to stretch your butt or legs, get the feet off the pedals. Just my take on how to preserve your kayak for fishing. To finish off the statement, I'd recommend you stick with ST fins possibly. But the turbo's will give you a nice relaxed cadence just use them carefully.
Good luck.

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Yakkingaway
Portsmouth, VA

I am also a bit of a neophyte regarding my Outback. I bought and joined last summer. I vaguely remember reading somewhere on the forum last summer that the turbo fins introduce more stress on the mounts of the hull of older Kayaks with the older drive mounts. On my 2009 Outback, I have the V2 drive with the newer drive mounts and have read on the forum that these mounts can support the turbo fins.

Thanks for all the good info. I will just put the ST fins on so I don't have to worry. I've read on here the ST fins are still a good upgrade from the stock ones that are on it now.

Hey md. Agree with comments above. It is the drive well strengthening kit provided by Hobie for older Outback and Adventure hulls. I have a 2004 and a 2005 Outback and have added the kits (free from Hobie ) to both and have not had any problems. I use the ST fins and can feel the difference between them and the stock fins.

Great, stable fishing platform...but not a great paddle kayak...but why paddle when you can pedal !! Congrats on your purchase and best of luck.

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"If I'm not at work, I'm Outback"

Hi
Just wanted to add my 2 cents.
In 2005, I bought a used 2003 Outback.
In 2006, I added the patch kit as a precaution, since it was free and easy to install.
I also upgraded to the Turbo fins.

I'm a kayak fisherman that doesn't have a "need for speed", but.... having the Turbo fins is helpful in being more efficient.
I deal with some pretty strong currents fishing the tidal rivers in Maine, and I have to admit, the Turbo fins are a plus for my situations.
I will also add that I have never had any Hull cracking issues at the patch area you mentioned.

I felt the need to answer your question as the title "Old Outback Hull Fix", caught my attention.
I love the Outback for its stability, but ya just can't be in a hurry to get somewhere.

My next kayak may be the Revo, but then again.......maybe another Outback.