Workboat
p. 157 · Read in the full issue
Maintenance
What To Look For In
A New Workboat
A lot has been written about routine maintenance of work boats, their fuel consumption and general operation, but com paratively little has been written about the selection of a new craft and the equipment to go in it. Here are some hints on the new workboat by PlM’s marine engine specialist.
Workboats are general utility ssels, and many “work” features n be included at the time of buying. )r instance, the correct power can installed for maximum speed at out 80 per cent, of engine output which is often the best fuel con niption point.
Where to install the engine is a cky problem, and there are no hard d fast rules. However, here are me pointers: • If you install the engine for’d, u get a lot of room amidships, but iciency is impaired. • If you install the engine amid ips, you get normal efficiency. • If you install the engine right (driving for’d to a V drive return x and back through the conven nal stern tube with a normal SS ipeller shaft) you get maximum ice for cargo, and, provided that 5 engine is not very heavy, this is good, safe position. (Among other ngs it keeps water and exhaust )es short and the noise right aft.)
Safe, reliable
Some owners prefer a twin screw :ause it is safe, reliable and moeuvrable —but it is relatively ex isive.
A small auxiliary set can be useful the workboat operates in remote :as, otherwise an alternator run ig off the main engine can give tteries that extra boost.
Fhere are two types of steering ir to choose between for a new rkboat; the manual gear and the iraulic gear (controls can also be nual or hydraulic).
Exhaust systems vary, and Island workboat owners have distinct pre ferences in this regard.
Dry exhausts have their advantages, particularly when overhead. Wet ex hausts (with circulating water going into the exhaust pipe for silencing and cooling) are also popular.
The wet section is a special rubber which does not corrode or rust away.
Excellent
With a new craft, fit up-to-date stern or underwater gear; excellent shafting is now available and very fine propeller alloys.
However, it is advisable to fit anode pads near the propeller.
On the original electrical section, good batteries are essential, and while the nickel alkaline tyres are excellent trouble-free units, there are very good reliable lead-acid types.
To save space, fuel tanks (prefer ably of heavy gauge black iron) can be built in on a new craft.
The building of the workboat, whether timber or steel, should be supervised by a reputable naval architect, who will ensure that both materials and workmanship are en tirely satisfactory.
Designs and specifications are available in Sydney by competent de signers, the majority of whom are prepared to vary the general layout arrangements to suit specific require ments.