SUN TRACKER XP3 Package Tritoons Get Up & Go

Starting at the water, the XP3 performance logs are key to high-speed capabilities. SUN TRACKER XP3 models come equipped with three 26" logs, as opposed to two 24" logs found on standard models. The tritoon design provides more lift to the boat. In addition to enhancing the boat’s on-plane capabilities, these three larger logs also help support the additional weight added to the boat by the bigger, higher-horsepower engine each boat is rated for. The logs are all built with a .100 5052 marine alloy, a thicker, stronger metal that will stand up to the stress put on the pontoon logs at high speeds.

In addition to the enhanced size and material, XP3 pontoon logs feature a total of four lifting strakes—one on the inboard side of each outer log and two on the center log. These strakes function the same way as strakes on a fiberglass sport boat—they lift the boat’s bow out of the water when underway. As with all boats, the less of the hull (or in this case, the pontoons) in the water, the less resistance and the faster a boat can potentially go. The strakes also help with turning while cruising by biting into the water when negotiating sharper turns.

If you look between the pontoon logs underneath an XP3 model, you’ll quickly notice metal sheeting that covers the full-width Z-bars. This is called deck underpinning, also known as under skinning. When you’re cruising, water will splash up to the Z-bars, causing resistance and slowing the boat. The underpinning negates that by creating a smooth surface and significantly less resistance.

The faster you’re going, the more responsive you’ll need the steering to be for maximum performance and safety. That’s why SUN TRACKER XP3 models come standard with hydraulic steering. You’ll find this type of steering to be much easier to control when you’re cruising down the lake at full speed.