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Permalink Reply by Don Wakefield on December 22, 2010 at 7:26pm

Hi Jason -- Another reply after another six months....just wanted to post with you the newest picture of what is almost a completed wooden sled/drifter (haven't found a moniker for this thing yet).  I just lack the oars and locks, and some hardware for using an anchor or lead weight.  I incorporated a jet steering system that allows me to use my feet when going downstream like airplane rudder pedals  while looking over the transom and drifting downstream, or swivel this seat to the bow (which is mounted over the gas tank) and use a joy stick when jetting in the same direction as the bow is pointing.  I'm feeling that with practice with the jet steering and skillful throttle application this boat could easily be used to power drift down through difficult water.  Might be like patting your head while rubbing your stomach but with practice..... the throttle is mounted on that pipe alongside the seat box and can be slid in both directions to accomodate the direction of the seat.

The lady in the picture is my 92 yo mother construction superintendent - she pokes her head through the garage door once in a while to make sure I'm still around. 

 

I'm gussying up the new-to-me trailer for this boat, and when I finish this in a week or so I'll take it down to the lake and see if it works.  Then write what I hope will be an interesting report to my fellow boat builders.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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Permalink Reply by Jason Knight on December 26, 2010 at 9:36am

Don,

This is really impressive. I am really interested to hear how the boat handles under power and when rowed. I like the idea of a power drifter for some of the bigger slower water here, and am currently compiling info on the topic and checking out some designs on the rivers we fish. 

Nice work, and keep us posted as you get closer to launch. Thanks for sharing!

 

jason

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