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New Build

Started building my first mini airboat. Using a Cuyuna 41HP motor on a 12ft jon boat. I have the engine , tank, battery and seat base mounted. Working on the cage and adding more strength to the engine mount. Built the electric start for it. Couldn't find one to buy. Going to use a 3 blade 50" Ultra prop. Figuring out thing as I go. And teaching myself how to weld aluminum (that is a bitch).
 

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Some things to strongly consider.

  • Aluminum has terrible fatigue properties and thus isnt often used for engine stands that carry 100% of the thrust loads.
  • Alum also returns to the annealed state (T0) in the hear affected zones where it was welded. Losing most of its strength.
  • Pillow block bearings do not typically has very good axial load ratings unless specifically designed for them. You need to be very certain yours can carry around a 200lb combined axial load @ about 33% of their max rating if you want your belt drive to survive.
  • Use of gussets between load members will dramatically improve their strength and durability.
I would rebuild the engine stand with steel box tubing.

Good luck with your build, be cautious.
 
Now that is very discouraging.
I thought I was doing good saving weight.
Could have sworn you guys use aluminum on mini airboats.
I will be adding gussets to the uprights. Hopefully that will cure any problems.
Thanks for the input.
 
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