Legendary Baby 2 The compact metal boat has become a symbol of affordability and reliability for thousands of aqueous motorists in the post-Soviet space, and its simplicity and maintainability make it popular even decades after mass production.
Owners often look for accurate specificationto see if a particular body fits for motorization. Baby 2 It was originally designed as a propeller, but its flat bottom allows you to install low-power engines, and it's important to understand that any upgrade requires careful calculation and compliance with safety rules on the water.
In this article, we will take a look at all the parameters of the case, look at the drawings and discuss the nuances of operation, you will learn why this model remains relevant and what to look for when buying a used copy.
Structural features of the body
The basis of the design is aluminum-alloy (most commonly AMG5 or AMG6), which provides light weight and resistance to corrosion. The case is assembled by riveting, which eliminates the need for welding for minor repairs. The bottom is flat, which provides excellent parking stability, but can create difficulties in the excitement.
The aircraft are of low altitude, requiring the driver to be very careful when boarding and disembarking. false-board This modification not only increases the buoyancy reserve, but also allows the boat to be used in more difficult weather conditions.
⚠️ Warning: Aluminum case is sensitive to galvanic vapor. Never install a stainless steel lower unit motor without insulation, this will accelerate electrocorrosion of the metal.
The design provides for the presence of two cans (seats), which also serve as transom power elements. transom board The standard version is not available, but can be installed independently, provided the aft is reinforced, and the weight of the empty boat is about 25-30 kg, which allows it to be transported in the trunk of a passenger car.
Technical specifications and dimensions
To objectively assess the capabilities of the boat, you need to refer to dry numbers. Baby 2 They allow you to maneuver easily in narrow ducts and reed-covered bays, but the short length puts limits on speed and seaworthiness.
Below is a table with the main parameters that will help you decide on the choice of engine and load capacity.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Full length | 2.45 m | By the side. |
| maximum width | 1.15 m | In the middle part |
| Height of board | 0.35 m | No false-board. |
| Load capacity | 200 kg | Including the crew. |
| Body weight | 28 kg | No equipment. |
Passenger capacity is officially 2 people, but only two adults of medium build with a minimum set of gear can comfortably accommodate. Displacement It allows you to safely carry a load of up to 200 kg, but exceeding this limit critically reduces the height of the freeboard.
The optimal power of the engine for Baby 2 should not exceed 3 hp. due to the small length of the body and the risk of flooding with a wave.
Drawings and schemes for modernization
For those who decide to restore or upgrade the boat, the presence of accurate drawings becomes criticalStandard schematics Baby 2 It is quite simple, but knowing the location of the frames and stringers is necessary when installing the transom.
Many enthusiasts are creating bottom-line And that's because you've got a keel or a redan to improve your ride, and that's a little bit less water resistance and a little bit more planing speed, although it's very difficult to get clean glides on a boat like this.
Where can I find the original drawings?
Original factory drawings are often found in the archives of Boats and Yachts magazines from the 70s and 80s or in specialized powerboating forums. Look for files marked "Project 183."
When making a tray board, it is important to observe the angles of the inclination of the lower unit. 10-15 degrees. The wrong angle will either lead to the nose being buried in water or the screw cavitating.
Operation and maintenance
The care of an aluminum boat is minimal, but it requires regularity. After each fishing, you need to wash away the remains of mud and silt with fresh water, especially in places of riveting joints. Frozen dirt can retain moisture and provoke oxidation of the metal.
Particular attention should be paid to the state of rivetedOver time, the leakage may break and the boat will start to draw water. Use special thiocol sealants for underwater work to fix the leak.
☑️ Seasonal checkup of the Little Ones
Keeping the boat upside down under a canopy or in a garage is recommended. Direct sunlight is not terrible for metal, but can destroy wooden elements of equipment. In winter, it is better to put silica gel or other moisture absorbers inside the hull.
⚠️ Warning: Do not use abrasive powders or hard brushes to clean the case. Damage to the oxide film will accelerate the corrosion of aluminum.
Comparison with modern analogues
In the era of inflatable PVC boats Baby 2 It seems archaic, but it has some undeniable advantages: the metal body cannot be pierced with a knot or a sharp stone, making it ideal for shallow water and overgrown shores.
On the other hand, PVC boats They're better at comfort and speed, and they're more buoyant than they are at the same time, and they're more buoyant than they are at the same time, and they don't have to be a rigid aluminum structure, and they depend on the specific operating conditions.
If you fish on the same pond with a gentle shore and a rocky bottom, the metal will be more reliable. For travel-fishing with frequent crossings and overnight stays in the tent, an inflatable option with an inflatable floor will be more convenient.
To improve comfort on Baby 2, you can use removable inflatable tubes attached to the sides, which will increase stability and protect against spray.
Safety at sea
The enemy is the Baby 2 The low side and flat bottom make the boat extremely unstable in lateral turbulence, and it is strongly discouraged to go out into the open water in such a boat.
Always carry a scoop to pump water out. Even in calm weather, splashing or sloppy movement can cause water to get inside. Having life jackets on board is a must, neglecting which can cost lives.
The distribution of the load should be uniform. Shifting the center of gravity to one side or to the nose/feed can lead to differentiation and loss of handling. Centrification This is especially important when installing the motor.
What is the maximum weight of the baby 2?
The official payload is 200 kg, including the weight of the boat, the engine, fuel, equipment and people, and a really safe load for a confident stay on the water is about 150 kg.
Can I install a 5-hp motor?
Theoretically, it can, but it's dangerous. The 2.45m body length doesn't allow you to safely reach high speed. The 5 hp engine will create a wave that will flood the stern, which will lead to the rapid filling of the body with water.
How to fix the leak in the aluminum case?
For temporary repairs, epoxy compounds with aluminum crumb will be suitable. For major repairs, it is better to use cold welding for aluminum or digesting / riveting the sheet.
Where can I find the transom blueprints for Little Boy?
The drawings can be found on the powerboating forums for "Trans for Baby" drawing. The standard height of the transom for a short leg is 381 mm, but for this boat often makes less, about 350 mm.