How difficult to convert this engine to variable speed?

[apex1]

Originally Posted by Homefront

Richard,

Strip planking her in cedar, probably 5/8 x 1" and glass-sheathed inside and out, is what I was thinking. I'm familiar with carvel or "set works" planking, but the idea of making planes with the needed various radii, backing out planks, is at best unappealing. Besides, she would live on a trailer - not a carvel friendly circumstance.
I could plank her on molds, then strip laminate the real frames adjacent to the molds before I pull the molds out.

Something like that, yes.

And having done it that way, you would have some 150 lbs or so saved above WL, then a sandwich made house would be within technical possibilities.
Due to the fact that there is no Atkin left to revise the plans, who will do that? I do´nt feel comfortable without.

Did I understand the post above right? The engine is´nt available any longer?

Regards
Richard

[Homefront]

The engine is available - TowmanDoug was suggesting an even less expensive alternative - a Perkins - which is, sadly, out of stock.

As for stability; after the boat itself was built, I would do a mock up of the center console/enclosure to simulate the height and weight and do some sea trials before I built the real thing.

Another thing to consider: Atkin provides 2 sets of lines with the plans - one hull designed for 9-10 knots, the other for up to 16 knots.
I assume that the faster hull has less upsweep to the chines aft, providing more bearing and bottom for prop thrust so she doesn't dig a hole. This has me wondering if the faster hull would also provide more initial and reserve stability.

Methinks it's time to order the plans and find out!

[apex1]

Nothing can beat a empirical test....................

Due to your engine choice (and economy), there will be only one choice left, which one to build!?

What was it 55$ or so. I think that is a good and relatively cheap start.

Regards
Richard

[Homefront]

Perhaps either of these two would be more reasonable for the power:

Devlin Dipper. I would lengthen this hull 2-3' for more fishing space, which I think would also be necessary for an inboard installation:
http://www.devlinboat.com/dipper.htm

Atkin Surprise. I might add 1' to this one, and move the low cabin forward 2'. Then I could add windshield to the aft edge of the low cabin, with some kind of foldable bimini: http://www.boat-links.com/Atkinco/Sail/Surprise.html

[apex1]

The Dipper looks nice and sturdy, but is too short of course. But lengthening is a new design. It is not just adding a few inches, unfortunately.
The Atkins would not need much to change, but a modern building method is again a new design either.

Maybe just look further! I would do so too, but I´m a bit short in time, have just today adopted a new project.

Regards
Richard