Domestically produced aluminum craft are often the subject of heated debate among water-engineers, praised for their indestructibility and accessibility, criticized for asceticism and noise. PL 70It is not just a piece of metal bent on the sides, but an engineering solution that has been tested by time and harsh conditions of Russian water bodies.
Many aspiring anglers are asking themselves, should we take this model today, when the market is full of Chinese analogues and composite materials? FL 70It was designed as a universal transport for a single fisherman or a small company that values ease of service over comfort, and unlike inflatable PVC analogues, there is no risk of piercing the board against a snag, and field repairs take minutes.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features, real driving performance and hidden nuances of the operation of this model. You will learn which engine is optimal for this body, how to properly distribute the load and what improvements will turn a simple Kazanka into a full-fledged fishing tool. The main bearing element of the design is made of aircraft alloy D16T, which provides high corrosion resistance when operating in salt water.
Structural features and materials of the body
The basis of durability of any metal boat is the quality of the material and the assembly technology. Boat FL 70 It is made of aluminum-magnesium alloy, which combines lightness and high strength. The thickness of the bottom and sides varies depending on the modification, but the standard is 2-2.5 mm, which is the middle between the weight and survivability of the case.
The metal sheets are joined by argon-arc welding, which is a critical point, because seams are often the weak spot of cheap analogues. FL 70 The seams are boiled evenly, without burns and indigestion, which ensures tightness even in severe excitement, and the design provides for reinforced transes that can withstand the thrust of engines up to 10-12 hp, although data-sheet figures may be more modest.
The geometry of the hull is a classic flatbed with slightly curved sides, a form that provides excellent parking stability that is highly valued by anglers when fishing for a throw. However, on the go, especially in lateral waves, a flat bottom can cause yaws and bumps against the water, which is why many owners immediately think about upgrading the contours.
Technical specifications and driving performance
When you look at data-sheet figures, it's important to understand that it's often given for ideal conditions. loading capacity The FL 70 can accommodate two adults of medium build and a full set of equipment, but it is worth remembering that aluminum hulls have the property of "drawing" water when you move along the wave, if you overload the bow.
Driving performance directly depends on the power of the installed engine. With a low-power electric motor or a gasoline "Chinese" for 2-3 hp, the boat barely glides with even one person. To enter the planing mode, power is required from 5-6 hp. At the same time, the speed can reach 20-25 km / h, which is enough to move along reservoirs and large rivers.
It's worth noting that it's handling. The rigid hull responds perfectly to the steering wheel, but the lack of keeliness makes the boat sensitive to lateral wind. FL 70 It can throw hard, so it's a must to hold onto the sides or the seats, and the noise of aluminum is a known fact, but when you use the sling wheel properly, you minimize that.
To reduce noise and vibration on the go, use special rubber pads between the banks and the sides, and check the tightening of all bolt connections before each season.
Comparison with competitors: table of advantages
To objectively assess the place PL 70 In the market, you have to compare it to the direct competitors in the small metal boat segment, and often the choice is between the time-tested classics and the more modern, but expensive ones.
Below is a comparison table showing the model's positioning relative to popular peers, averaged based on technical passports and feedback from real owners.
| Parameter | FL 70 | Kazanka-M | PVC 320 cm | Plastic boat |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Materials | Aluminum D16T | aluminum | PVC reinforced | Fiberglass |
| Body weight (kg) | ~60-70 | ~80-90 | ~35-40 | ~100+ |
| Puncture resistance | High. | High. | Medium | High. |
| Comfort on the wave | Low. | Low. | Medium. | Highly |
| Price. | Low. | Medium | Medium | High. |
As you can see from the table, FL 70 Plastic is more beautiful and quieter, but when it hits a stone, it can crack, which requires repair in the workshop, aluminum can be sealed with epoxy or brewed right on the shore, PVC is lighter, but afraid of sparks and sharp objects, the choice is always up to the owner's priorities: comfort or reliability.
The main advantage of the FL 70 over competitors is the possibility of emergency repair of the hull in the field without special equipment.
Operation and maintenance: advice from professionals
The long life of your boat depends not only on the quality of the metal, but also on how you care for it. Aluminum is prone to electrochemical corrosion, especially in salt water or in contact with other metals. cross-board and fasteners must be made of stainless steel or have a high-quality zinc coating.
After every fishing trip, especially in salt water, the boat should be rinsed with fresh water. Inner cavities, if any (in double bottom or sides), should be ventilated. FL 70 unattended water for a long time unless it is treated with antifouling paint, although for aluminum cases this is rare due to the risk of corrosion.
Special attention should be paid to storage in winter. Metal has the ability to expand and contract at temperature changes. If there is any remaining water in the structure, they can expand and deform thin sheets of skin. Before placing in winter storage, make sure that all drainage holes are open, and the boat itself is upside down or under a canopy.
☑️ Preparing the boat for winter
⚠️ Warning: Never use copper or brass fittings and fasteners in direct contact with the aluminium hull of the FL 70. The aluminum-copper galvanic vapor in salt water results in instant and destructive electrolysis that can eat a hole in the board in one season.
Popular tuning and modifications DIY
Owning a metal boat is rarely without the desire to improve. FL 70 The first thing owners do is swap their regular wooden cans for more comfortable seats with soft cushions or install swivel seats on pedestal bases.
The second stage of tuning is the installation of runduks, in a small boat, every centimeter of gold in weight, the organization of space allows you to store life jackets, anchor, fuel and tools in dry and order, without cluttering the cockpit. Often, the runduks are made removable to use as seats.
The third, and perhaps the most important, step for comfort is noise and vibration insulation, where the bottom and sides are coated with vibration insulation materials (bitumen or polymer-based) and covered with floating linoleum or carpet, which not only reduces motor noise and wave splash, but also makes the boat warmer.
The secret to a quiet move
Many experienced water-engineers recommend gluing a 5-10mm thick foamed polyethylene layer to the inside of the sides and bottom before finishing, which works as a thermos and a silencer at the same time, greatly improving comfort at high speeds.
Security and GIM requirements
The operation of any boat requires compliance with safety rules. Boat FL 70 The safety jackets are registered with the GIMS if its length exceeds 3 meters or engine power exceeds 8 hp (norms may change, check with local authorities for current information). The presence of life jackets by the number of passengers is a mandatory requirement that cannot be neglected.
It is important to monitor the centering of the loads. Aluminum flat-floaters are sensitive to shifting of the center of gravity; a sudden jerk of a passenger on board or moving a heavy anchor to the nose can lead to dangerous roll. All loads must be securely secured, especially when traveling along a wave.
Remember to use navigation lights if you plan to go out into the water at night or in poor visibility. FL 70 You need to have a complete flashlight that you can quickly install on your nose, and always carry a scoop and cat anchor, as aluminum boats blow faster when the wind blows than heavy ones.
⚠️ Attention: When installing additional equipment (echo sounders, navigators, powerful headlights), monitor the total weight of the equipment. Exceeding the rated carrying capacity even by 20-30 kg critically reduces the height of the board above the water, making the boat FL 70 vulnerable to flooding with a wave.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the maximum weight of the engine to be put on the FL 70?
Officially, the manufacturer often indicates a limit of 10-12 hp However, experienced owners successfully operate these boats with engines up to 15 hp The main thing is to monitor the differentiation and not overload the transom. A more powerful motor may require the installation of squishy nasal zygomatic shields to compensate for the differentiation.
Should I paint an aluminum boat?
Aluminum is not necessarily corrosion-resistant, unless it comes into contact with aggressive environments all the time, but epoxy and paint paint paints greatly improve appearance, make it easier to wash away dirt and oil, and mask scratches.
Can I use the FL 70 at sea?
You can use it, but with caution. The flat bottom is not suitable for a sea wave, the boat will beat hard against the water. Besides, salt water is aggressive to aluminum. After each outing, the boat must be thoroughly washed with fresh water and lubricated metal knots.
How to fix a small hole in the body?
For temporary repairs, epoxy plasticine or cold welding for aluminum is fine. For major repairs, argon welding is used. If you don't have welding at hand, you can put an aluminum patch on the sealant and screws, but this is a temporary measure. It is important to clean the edges of the hole to pure metal before repair.
Is the body warmed in the sun?
Aluminum is highly thermally conductive, so in the sun, the sides and seats can heat up very much, it is recommended to use light awnings or covers on the seats, and also not to leave the boat uncovered on a hot day, so that the greenhouse effect does not form inside.