Inflatable kayaks, or kayaks, are rapidly gaining popularity among water tourism enthusiasts and fishermen looking for mobility and ease of transportation. electric-engine It turns this lightweight craft from a sports cart into a complete vehicle for long distances, and that's why the question of how to properly fit and fit a PVC kayak into a motor becomes critical for many water-engineers.
Unlike traditional inflatable boats, kayaks have a specific hull geometry that imposes certain limitations on the power selection plant. The wrong approach to modernization can lead not only to loss of stability, but also to damage to cylinders or tanning board. In this article, we will discuss in detail the nuances of choice, design features and rules for safe operation of an inflatable kayak with an outboard motor.
Design features of kayaks with the ability to install the motor
The first thing that the buyer faces is the variety of body designs. Inflatable kayaks The engine is divided into single and double layers, where in the second case the inflatable tubes are inserted into a rigid PVC frame. The rigidity of the transom part is critical to the installation of the motor, since vibrations and persistent loads when driving can deform the soft side.
Many manufacturers, such as Nordway, Klepper or SevylorThey're usually special pockets or reinforced areas on the stern, and if you're planning to use a kayak primarily for an outboard motor, you should look at the models with the stern. keelwhich provides additional course stability and hardness of the bottom.
⚠️ Attention: Installation of the motor on a kayak not designed for this purpose is prohibited. The absence of a reinforced transom will lead to a breakthrough of the cylinder under the action of the propeller support.
The shape of the stern is an important element. The flat-walled transom, which is characteristic of flat-boats, is often replaced by a bevelled or rounded one in kayaks, requiring the use of special transition platforms or adapters that distribute the load over a large area of the board.
Selection criteria: length, load capacity and power
The choice of the right model depends on your goals: fishing on the lake or rafting along the river with the current. For calm water, narrower and longer models that ensure high speed are suitable. resilience and the possibility of installing additional attachments.
The engine, battery (for electric motors) and fisherman with equipment must not exceed passport values. An overloaded kayak loses driving performance and becomes dangerous. The optimal power of an air-powered kayak engine rarely exceeds 3-5 hp for gasoline units and 0.5-1.0 kW for electric ones.
When choosing, also consider the fabrication material. PVC 850-900 g/m2 Reinforced materials are considered the standard for motor kayaks, and thinner materials may not withstand the effects of vibration and heat from exhaust gases (in the case of a gasoline engine).
Installation of the transom board: step-by-step instructions
Installation of the transom is the most important step: in most cases, a removable structure is used, which is fixed by straps (belts) or inserted into special slots, first you need to inflate the cylinders to the operating pressure specified in the instructions (usually 0.2-0.25 Bar).
Then a stern board is installed, and if the kayak model doesn't have any regular mounts, a sling system is used, and it's important to tighten them evenly so that the board sits tightly and doesn't move left-right, and the skew will cause the kayak to yaw on the course.
☑️ Verification of transone installation
Once the board is fixed, the motor is hinged. For light electric motors, it is often enough to simply hook the lower unit on the top edge of the transom; gasoline engines require more reliable fixation, because their weight and vibration are significant. Make sure that the screw does not touch the inflatable elements when operating.
Comparison of gasoline and electric motors for kayaks
The choice of engine type determines the nature of your rest. Electric motors They are ideal for quiet fishing, do not pollute the water and do not require complex maintenance, but their autonomy is limited by battery capacity, and speeds rarely exceed 5-7 km / h.
Gasoline engines two-stroke or four-stroke, which allows freedom of movement and high speed, allow you to overcome headwinds and currents, but they are noisy, require preparation of fuel mixture (for 2 tons) and regular maintenance.
| Parameter | Electric motor | Gasoline 2t | Petrol 4t |
|---|---|---|---|
| Weight. | Light (5-10 kg) | Medium (10-15 kg) | Heavy (15-25 kg) |
| Noise | Minimum | High. | Medium |
| Speed. | up to 7 km/h | up to 25 km/h | 20 km/h |
| Service | Water washing | Complex (oil/gasoline) | Difficult (oil in the crankcase) |
For PVC kayaks weighing up to 20-25 kg (assembly), gasoline engines with a capacity of more than 3.5 hp are not recommended for use due to the risk of damage to the body at high speed. The optimal compromise for serious travel is considered to be an electric motor with a thrust of 30-40 lbs (pounds) with a lithium battery.
Safety and speed control
Controlling a kayak with a motor is different from controlling a boat. Due to its low landing and narrow hull, the kayak is more sensitive to shifting of the center of gravity. tipping.
Always use a life jacket, even if you can swim well. In cold water or in high winds, it is very easy to throw a person out of a narrow kayak, and it is also recommended to carry a scoop and a remix.
⚠️ Attention: When you move against a wave, slow down. The long bow of a kayak can act as a lever, and if you hit the water, you risk breaking in half (the mother of pearl effect).
Don’t forget about the rules of GIMS. Even on a kayak with a motor power less than 5 hp (or 3.68 kW), registration is sometimes required if the total power of all engines exceeds the limit, or if the craft is used for commercial purposes. Always carry the engine and floating vehicle documents.
Kayak care and post-season conservation
After each foray into the water, especially in salt water or muddy river, the kayak must be rinsed with fresh water. Sand and salt destroy the adhesive seams and PVC fabric. The motor also requires a flush of the cooling system.
Drying is a must before packaging, and even minimal moisture inside the bag will produce mold and a bad smell that is almost impossible to remove. Dry the kayak in the shade, direct sunlight can overheat the air in the cylinders and damage the material.
How to properly store a kayak in winter?
The ideal storage area is a dry room with a temperature of +5 to +20 degrees. Kayak can be stored inflated (suspended) or deflated. If you store it in a deflated state, do not put heavy objects on it and try not to bend the fabric in the same places to avoid clamps. Every six months, it is recommended to pump the cylinders and ventilate the product.
Before long-term storage, lubricate all metal elements (D-rings, handles, mounting oars) with silicone lubricant to prevent corrosion. Check the valves for leakage.
Use special silicone sprays to treat valves and threaded joints before winter storage – this will prevent parts from boiling and make it easier to prepare for next season.
Popular models and budget solutions
The market offers many options, and the most popular low-end kayaks are domestic kayaks, which are often adapted to our operating conditions, which may be inferior in ergonomics, but they benefit in the maintenance and availability of parts.
The premium segment is represented by brands like Gumotex or Advanced ElementsThese models often have a rigid frame (aluminum profiles), which allows you to develop high speeds and safely use motors up to 5 hp The price of such products is high, but the quality justifies the investment for frequent use.
When choosing between a used expensive kayak and a new budget for the engine, it is better to choose a new budget one, but with a margin of safety for the material, since the state of glue and seams in old models can be critical.
In conclusion, the PVC kayak is a great choice for those who appreciate compactness and versatility, and the right equipment and compliance with the rules of operation will make your day on the water safe and enjoyable.
Can I put the motor on a regular inflatable kayak without a transom?
Theoretically, you can use brackets that are attached to the sides, but it's extremely dangerous and not recommended by manufacturers, and these structures are unstable and can damage the cylinders, and you'd better buy a model with a regular place under the transom.
Which battery is better to choose for an electric motor on a kayak?
The best choice is a traction gel battery (GEL) or lithium-iron-phosphate (LiFePO4). They are lighter than lead, are not afraid of tilts (which is important for a kayak), and have a greater resource of charge-discharge cycles.
Do I need to register a PVC kayak with a 2 hp engine?
According to the current rules of the Russian Federation, small vessels with an engine of more than 8 kW (about 10.8 hp) are subject to registration with GIMS. However, the rules may change, and it is always worthwhile to clarify the current information in the local branch of GIMS, as there may be nuances with the total power or design.
How to transport a kayak with a set transceiver?
The trayboard should be removed and transported separately or inside the cockpit, so as not to damage it and create unnecessary sailing during transportation on the roof of the car. If you can not remove, make sure that the mounts are reliable and the board does not hang.