For no other reason that to prove it can be done I am considering an inboard conversion of my 14' tinny. The idea would be initially use a Harbor Freight 6 hp gas engine to prove the drive train, rudder etc. and then convert it to a 10hp electric start diesel. Conceptually a centrifugal clutch (the kind they use in go-karts) would provide a neutral, a forward reverse gearbox can be found cheaply, and the rest of the bearing and packings are all available from marine stores. I have access to a machine shop at work and a case of beer can get **** near anything made by a number of talented machinists. The motor would be mounted under a center console and the exhaust would be piped to an overhead outlet. That should put the transmission right at the feet of the operator.
Steering can be obtained from a boat scrap yard or purchased new without effort. Fabrication of a rudder should be simple. Best guess is that the boat won't plane, I don't care. Ideally we would hit somewhere around 8-10 knots. As of now all we do is putt around with a trolling motor, so more than likely we'll gain a bit of speed.
Any good reason not to do this? I know I can buy a $500 used outboard and buzz across the lake but for me the building is the fun element.
Steering can be obtained from a boat scrap yard or purchased new without effort. Fabrication of a rudder should be simple. Best guess is that the boat won't plane, I don't care. Ideally we would hit somewhere around 8-10 knots. As of now all we do is putt around with a trolling motor, so more than likely we'll gain a bit of speed.
Any good reason not to do this? I know I can buy a $500 used outboard and buzz across the lake but for me the building is the fun element.