This StingRay StarFire hydrofoil stabilizer in the StarFire-1 model is a black stabilizer for 40–300 hp outboard motors. It mounts onto the engine's cavitation/anti-cavitation plate above the propeller and is designed to improve the boat's planing, acceleration, and stability while underway.
The hydrofoil can reduce time-to-plane by up to 50% and helps the boat remain on plane at lower speeds. The reduced bow rise during acceleration can improve forward visibility, while the design counteracts pitching, porpoising, chinewalking, cavitation, and ventilation. The improved planing and stability can also contribute to lower fuel consumption.
The StarFire features an inverted trailing edge designed to reduce drag, as well as extended wingtips that improve stability while planing. The model has a moderate level 2 lift. The relative performance values are 7/10 for lift, 8/10 for speed, and 6/10 for stabilization.
The stabilizer is manufactured from plastic as a one-piece construction with a built-in mounting slot. The black surface features molded-in graphics with a shimmer effect in sunlight. The product is manufactured in the USA by Marine Dynamics, Inc., and the StarFire design is covered by patent US9573656B2.
No-drill installation is performed by sliding the hydrofoil as far forward as possible onto the cavitation plate. It is secured with two stainless steel set screws that grip the edge of the plate via brass threads in the hydrofoil. An Allen key is used for tightening. Always check the propeller clearance after installation, and check the tightness before and after every trip.
Alternatively, the hydrofoil can be mounted using two 1/4″ drilled holes. This method uses two 1/4-20 × 1.5″ stainless steel bolts, two stainless steel washers, and two nylon lock nuts. If the engine has a torque tab, it may need to be temporarily removed during installation and reinstalled afterward. A flat sacrificial anode does not usually need to be removed.
Key featuresFor 40–300 hp outboard motors
Mounts on the cavitation/anti-cavitation plate
Installs without drilling using two stainless steel set screws
Option for alternative 2-hole mounting
Up to 50% faster time-to-plane
Reduces bow rise, pitching, and cavitation
Improves stability while planing
One-piece black plastic construction
