Reply To: Windage!!

Steve, no update yet.
But some thoughts to share:
I was going to install these transom mount motors on two small swim ladders. After thinking about this, hanging off the stern to set up and remove the motors, when they are most needed in rougher weather is probably not the best solution. So I’ve ordered longer shafts 62″ and pontoon mounts to replace the transom mounts, these have an opening catch so the motors can be easily removed and stowed. Have “chopped” their heads off and will mount these tiller controls on the helm station using a part original shaft so that they can be removed. For both the motors and controls I’ve ordered those waterproof cigarette lighter style plugs with a 6 AWG adapter to handle the larger wire needed. This will make the whole setup quick to install.

These motors aren’t exactly powerful (0.8hp each), but the most thrust I could get staying in the 12v range. Duel 110 pounders would give you 3.7 knots but they are at 36v, which when you consider all the electric bits and bobs needed becomes expensive and didn’t want to have the complications of duel voltage or buy expensive DC/DC converters. According to the propking spreadsheet both at full speed should push the boat at 2.9 knots (www.electricboats.co.uk/surfprop/Propking.xls)
That number is of course for calm weather so who knows up till what windage or current this will work in, but I guess it’ll be better than nothing and a damn side cheaper than twin main engines or bow thrusters. The tricky part I think is coordinating the main engine control and the two extra controls, could be fun.
It’s possible to simplify this setup by throwing away the controller and only applying full power with a simple three way switch & contractor for each. I opted to keep the controllers cause I figured they might be useful assisting the boat going to wind on a lee shore, kind of like a electric dagger board but I’m doubtful if this will work.

Now just to figure out where to put the pontoon mounts…
Parts will be arriving in a week or so, will let you know how it turns out.