Model R vs. Model F Trade-offs in Alumacraft

[alumanaut]

Do R and F series Alumacrafts just refer to different lengths, or was one a higher end model and one a lower end one offered simultaneously?

Any advantages to R vs. F?

 

[raab@wi.rr.com]

Re: Model R vs. Model F Trade-offs in Alumacraft

The Model F's were always 14 feet. The R's, from my catalogs, always had the "F" width (which increased from for both from 52" to 54" in the mid-1950s) but were 11'7" in length vs. 14'. I know the R's were offered pre-1950 and I believe the F's were also early boats. The R's and F's were the step-up boats from the Model E and A boats, respectively. These "entry-level" boats had a horsepower limit of 12 hp in '56 while the F and R's were rated for 16 hp (later increased to 18 hp.). Being more than 2' shorter the R's were 20 lbs. lighter. I guess the FD was another step up from an F with the Aqueduct transom and much higher depths, capacity and hp limit (30 hp...). Both were offered with decks...front and steering. The R came with the front deck. So, the trade-off would be capacity, number of persons, and speed. Both great boats...More F's around than R's. Get 'em while you can.

 

[River - Runner]

Re: Model R vs. Model F Trade-offs in Alumacraft

Do R and F series Alumacrafts just refer to different lengths, or was one a higher end model and one a lower end one offered simultaneously?

Any advantages to R vs. F?

There's no trade-offs or one being better than the other. They are different boats. F's are 14' utility style, later with options of a forward deck or remote steering or both. The model F and the later stronger and heavier F7 were AlumaCrafts most popular and most sold boats. The original classic model F set the standard for the other later boat models.
The model R's are 12 footers and could be a utility style or depending on options and year could be configured as a true runabout. The F, F7 and R's never had the Aqueduct transom as the deeper model FD boat did. The FD rated horsepower varied through the years and was up to 40 hp max.

As for any advantages to R vs. F would be it's intended use.

A 1957 model F utility.

A same vintage model R runabout with options.

rabb... Thanks for all the catalog info. My knowledge is only what I see though the years.

These are all true great boats.