17' picnic boat

[Rick B.]

I'm very interested in this boat but I have a few questions.

1. I'm assuming that since it has a rudder that the outboard engine is locked in a stationary position?

2. What would the max weight be for an engine?

3. I'm interested in river cruising and would like to hear your opinions concerning horsepower requirements when going up stream.

4. Would this design be considered to have a displacement hull?

5. Are there by chance any photos on the web of completed boats?

Thanks in advance.

Rick

[Boatplans.dk]

Rick B.,

1. That's right the engine is locked.

2. The weight of the engine can easily be 50 kg (110 lbs.). Since the engine is placed in a well at the aft compartment the question is not so much the weight but more if there is space enough for the engine in that compartment. I have checked with mercury up to 8 hp and they will suit. You can say that the 8 hp has a similar housing as the 10 hp so it will properly fit as well.

3. How much up stream are you going against?

4. Yes, it is a displacement hull.

5. Haven't seen any yet, but the design has sold quite well so I presume there must be some build.

[Rick B.]

As for the motor I was contimplating, it was the Mercury 9.9 hp bigfoot, assuming it has adequate power.

I live in Jefferson City Missouri, and probably the biggest "up stream" challenge I'll be facing will be the Missouri river. It normaly runs in the 5 to 7 mph range. I don't believe the other local rivers run that fast.

Oh, another question I have regarding the motor used is what shaft length fits the boat the best?

Thanks again.

Rick

[Boatplans.dk]

According to my power prediction calculations you would be able to go somewhere between 11-12 knots with a 9.9 hp outboard. This should give you enough speed to go up stream. So the Mercury 9.9 hp would be a good choice in your situation. A short shaft engine will be fine, no need for the long shaft.