Posted by Matt S. on November 21, 2002 at 15:31:29:
In Reply to: cheap power posted by Brian B. on November 21, 2002 at 10:32:50:
In my opinion, this concept could be possible, but would a mower engine create enough torque to push the boat at any speed? You'd have to make some mods to the engine. You'd have to fabricate some heavy duty motor mounts, small one cylinder engines vibrate pretty bad. Also, you'd need good ventilation to the engine compartment as mower engines are air cooled. Some kind of gearbox would be needed to create a neutral position in the driveline, and possibly a reverse gear. With the mod's you have to make, the trial and error that it would incorporate, you'd probably be better just to start with a marine engine and save youself the hastle.
: I read in boatbuilder about using briggs and stratton type motors for source of inboard power. Captain Woodie Owen claims you can use readily available parts to achieve this. Is anyone interested? Would anyone try this approach? Interested to hear some thoughts.