Peter Volken Smidt – episode 3 – Electrifying a Contest 30
Introduction Robust-MT Marine Technology BV
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In episode 1 we met Peter Volken Smidt. In episode 2 the engine of the Contest 30 was removed. In this episode we read how the Contest 30 'went on dry land'.
A boat on dry land and the removal of remaining parts
Because the boat was still in the water while it was being stripped of the old diesel, it was not possible to remove all parts at once. In particular, the propeller shaft and the water-cooled exhaust etc. had to remain in place to prevent the boat from sinking to the bottom of the harbor. At the beginning of October '22, a year later than hoped, the boat was lifted out of the water. First I remove any remaining old junk.
I had enough time to think between the time of purchasing the new electric motor and actually electrifying the boat. This is how I discovered that the location of the propeller is quite decisive for the maneuverability of the boat. Since I do not have a bow thruster, it is important that the location of the propeller is close to the rudder, especially at low speed and for maneuverability. It is not without reason that the current propeller is so close to my rudder blade. In an ideal world, this should also be the location of the new screw.
Hull shape
What is also important is that the hull shape where the pod motor will be attached is or becomes as flat as possible, so that the propeller does not hang at an angle but as horizontally as possible under the boat. The old propeller now protrudes from the hull at a place where the hull slopes upwards towards the waterline. Far from ideal for installing the new engine.