Building a testing tank.

[epresutti]

Folks,<br /><br />I am getting ready to put my rebuild together (mechanical components, tank, engine, fittings, etc.)<br /><br />After reading comments on this forum and details in my Clymer manual, certain adjustments (like timing) need to be done under power. I would like to build a test tank that I can run the motor at WOT.<br /><br />Given the above I was contenplating a tank that is roughly 6' x 4' x 2'(deep). Does anyone have a recommendation for the size and shape of the tank so I can run the motor safely. My intention is to be able to lower the motor into the tank (back up to the test tank and use the T&T) while it is bolted to the transom.<br /><br />The motor is a Johnson 82' 140hp.<br /><br />Any and all help is greatly appreciated.<br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.

 

[JB]

Re: Building a testing tank.

Hi, Ed.<br /><br />Two suggestions:<br /><br />1. Buy a test wheel (to replace the prop) from a Johnny dealer. A 4x6 tank can't handle a 140 prop at WOT.<br /><br />2. A farm supply store can sell you a stock watering tank up to 8' (round or oval). Most trailers will place the engine height ideally, and by turning the engine full port or starboard you can get a whirlpool effect that can probably handle your engines prop at WOT.<br /><br />The children will love the "pool" when you aren't testing.<br /><br />Good luck.

 

[epresutti]

Re: Building a testing tank.

JB,<br /><br />Thanks, happen to live in "Farm Country", Farm and Fleet is right down the road.<br /><br />Do I still need the Wheel if I am using an 8' tank?<br /><br />Thanks in advance.<br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.

 

[JB]

Re: Building a testing tank.

Hi, Ed.<br /><br />I don't think you would "need" the wheel with a big tank, but I would still recommend it.

 

[Spidybot]

Re: Building a testing tank.

Tried something like it once with a 50 hp. in a round 500 litre tank. Very soon after the motor made the water move, the whirl reached a pretty high speed. The load on the prop was low and it all turned pretty dangerous. Fitted 'finns' to the inside to prevent the whirl from spinnig too easy and that helped somewhat. Besides preventing actual thrust, the test-prop puts a load on the motor which may be useful when tuning.<br /><br />No fun to purchase a test prop for one time use, but if available as hire/borrow it could become fair.

 

[epresutti]

Re: Building a testing tank.

Thanks JB and UU,<br /><br />Any "ball park" on test prop price?<br /><br />Thanks in advance.<br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.

 

[sloopy]

Re: Building a testing tank.

I have an adjustible one, that I can select from a spread sheat how to turn the test blades and pich to get the effect from any were from 1x1 to 20x20<br /><br />I got it at an outboard dealer ship that burned down so it was the only thing left! it is clamped with wrenches to the shaft

 

[skeer]

Re: Building a testing tank.

Just IMHO but, for the cost and trouble of a test tank to do a couple of adjustments, wouldn't it be justified (in this case) to let a shop do the tune-up?? Like I say... IMHO.

 

[epresutti]

Re: Building a testing tank.

Skeer,<br /><br />It probably would be cheaper to let a shop do it, I am one of those "tinker" types. I expect I will be using it often. Besides my motor is an 82' and it is most likely I will be making more repairs.<br /><br />Thanks for the comments, cost is not always an issue with me, much to my wifes displeasure <br /><br />Safe boating to all.<br /><br />Cheers.<br /><br />emp.

 

[Bob_VT]

Re: Building a testing tank.

Ed keep an eye on ebay. I have seen test props for sale on there. What the heck all we have is time.<br /><br />Bob