Legendary double-boat Ufimka For more than half a century, it has been one of the most recognizable symbols of Soviet and then Russian water tourism. Simple as an axe and reliable as a tank, this flat-bottom AMG5 alloy has become the first step for millions of fishermen and summer residents into the world of big water. Ufimcam-2 It does not fade, and in the secondary market, queues often line up for a well-preserved specimen.
What is the secret of such popularity and what is it? specifications What makes this boat popular decades after mass production has ceased? It's primarily the hull material. The AMG5 alloy doesn't rust as we know it, it doesn't rot, it doesn't fear UV light, and it can withstand rocks that would instantly pierce the side of an inflatable boat, and it's this indestructibility that attracts those who are looking for transportation for difficult operating conditions, where self-repairing takes minutes, not hours.
However, by purchasing a second-hand ufimkaIt's not a comfortable boat with soft seats, but a utilitarian vessel that requires a certain amount of physical training and skill in transportation, and in this article we'll go through all the technical details, from the actual weight to the nuances of the engine installation, so you can make an informed decision about buying or upgrading this craft.
⚠️ Attention: When buying a used boat Ufimka carefully inspect the bottom for deep dents and cracks, especially in the bow and aft parts, as the metal over time can “get tired” of constant impacts on the ground.
Structural features and material of the body
The basis of durability Ufimk-2 Unlike welded boats, where the seam is a zone of thermal influence and potential corrosion, it uses cold sealed riveting. The hull sheets and rods are connected with aluminum rivets, which ensure high vibration resistance and tightness even in severe wave shaking. If you're planning a restoration, remember that only repairs are suitable. aluminum rivetsThe use of steel or copper elements is unacceptable due to electrochemical corrosion.
The boats have a distinctive shape with a pronounced zygomatic bend, which gives the hull additional rigidity without the use of heavy bulkheads. ufimke It's better to draw water when you're going against the wave, although it creates a lot of resistance on the go. The bottom is flat, which is both an advantage and a disadvantage: on the one hand, it's an ideal platform for standing fishing and a stable position on the ground, on the other hand, at full speed for an outboard motor, the boat is prone to yaw and requires constant control by the steering wheel.
The secret of the alloy AMG5
AMG5 (aluminum-magnesium) alloy has a unique ability to self-heal an oxide film, and even if you scratch the side of the metal, within a few hours, it will be covered in a thin layer of oxide in the air, which will protect the deep layers from further destruction.
An important element of the design are the hinge bars, which are often made of wood or hard polymers in later versions, protect the upper edge of the side from impacts on the berth and help with mooring. Inside the hull are three transom cans that serve as both seats and power kit elements that distribute the load around the perimeter. case.
Overall dimensions and weight specifications
When it comes to Ufamki dimensionsIt's important to separate data-sheet figures from the reality that the owner faces. Formally, the hull is 3,260 mm long, the mid-width is 1,360 mm, and the height of the board is 510 mm. These dimensions allow you to comfortably accommodate two adults with a minimum set of equipment. However, if you plan to spend the night in a boat or take large cargo with you, space can become critically small.
The most discussed parameter remains boatThe Ufimka-2 has a passport weight of 56 kg. It seems that it is not much for two men, but in practice it is more difficult. The weight of 56 kg refers to the "naked" body without anchor, ropes, cans (if they are removable) and engine. The real weight of a ready-to-alloy boat often exceeds 65-70 kg. It is almost impossible to lift such a cargo on a high shore or load it on the roof of a car alone without special devices.
To understand the scale, let’s compare ufimka And this is a little bit like the ones that we've seen in the table below, and it's going to help you gauge how much you're willing to sacrifice mobility for the strength of the metal.
| Parameter | Ufimka-2 (Aluminum) | PVC boat (320 cm) | Krym-M (Dural) |
|---|---|---|---|
| Body weight | 56 kg | 35-40 kg | 140 kg |
| Load capacity | 250 kg | 350-400 kg | 400 kg |
| Capacity | 2 people. | 2-3 people. | 3 people. |
| Transportation | Hard, we need a cart. | In the trunk of a car | Just the trailer. |
Capacity and passenger capacity
Official. loading capacity Ufimki-2 is declared by the manufacturer at 250 kg. This figure includes the weight of passengers, engine, fuel, anchor and all equipment. In practice, experienced water engines recommend not exceeding the load of 200 kg to maintain good wave scalability and safety. Aluminum hull has high buoyancy, but when overloaded, the boat becomes "viscosty", reacts heavily to control and risks drowning with a nasal wave.
The two-seater arrangement involves placing rowers or passengers on banks facing each other or with their backs as they move. outboard The rear jar is often used as a knob for storing things or a fuel tank, which shifts the center of gravity, and shifting the cargo to the nose will cause the boat to burrow into the wave, and shifting in the stern will lead to excessive differentiation and slowing speed.
⚠️ Attention: Never place heavy objects (batteries, anchors) on the bow of the boat without a reliable mount, as when braking sharply they can penetrate the thin aluminum side or injure passengers.
For night fishing Ufimka is only a conditional fit, and it will be extremely difficult for two adult men to turn around at night, but for day trips, picking mushrooms along river banks or short fishing sessions, it is quite enough to hold it. waterline Not above the recommended mark on the scoring.
Driving and handling
As mentioned, flat-bottomed He dictates his rules on the water, in calm water, in calm water, Ufimka-2 It's very predictable and stable. It's very well anchored, not rolling, which is highly valued by anglers, but if you go up in the wind or hit a headwind, the keel is not there, the boat starts to blow down, and when it's going full speed, it can go into an uncontrolled trot ( yaw) if the steering wheel loses his attention.
Many owners are trying to improve driving performance by installing various granule It really helps to make up for the lack of a redone or a keel by raising your nose in the planing, but the body design itself is not designed for high speeds. Ufamki To attempt to accelerate it to full planing with two passengers on board is to expose the structure to unnecessary stress and risk the integrity of the seams.
To improve the exchange rate stability on Ufimka often install removable false squilt of plywood or plastic, which is attached to the bottom for long-distance transitions.
The propeller handling is also very different, because of the low draught and flat bottom, the boat is very sensitive to the steering wheel, but it has a lot of turning inertia. Ufimka practically does not obey the steering wheel, which requires the motorist to coordinate well and use oars for maneuvering in narrowness.
Preparation for the installation of the outboard motor
Although initially Ufimka-2 designed as a rowing boat, the presence of a transom allows you to install outboardThe engine power should not exceed 5-6 hp A more powerful engine will not only take the boat beyond the limits of safe operation, but can also lead to breakage of the transom, which is not designed for such loads. The optimal choice is the engines with a capacity of 2-3.5 hp, which allow you to reach speeds of about 10-12 km / h, which is enough to move along reservoirs and rivers with low current.
The motor is fastened through a standard bracket or directly onto the transom, if the design permits. Ufamki It is about 380 mm, which corresponds to the short leg of the motor. It is important to carefully check the puff of the rods when installed, since vibration from the operation of the motor on a thin aluminum sheet can quickly weaken the connection.
☑️ Check before exit with the motor
It is important to note that the use of electric motors ufimke Installing a heavy battery on the stern can disrupt the trim, so it is better to place the battery on the central bank, and the motor is mounted on an elongated lower unit leg or use special brackets to shift the center of gravity.
Transport and storage of the boat
Transportation metal boat It is a separate chapter in the life of the owner. UfamkiUnlike inflatables, it can't be folded into a backpack. Long-distance transport typically uses car trailers or special lodgings on the roof of a car. When loaded onto the roof, you need to use soft pads to avoid scratching the paintwork and the metal itself. A 56 kg weight requires at least two people or a special winch-roller.
The boat also requires certain rules to be kept, and although aluminum doesn't rust, its surface can oxidize, especially in places where paint is chipped. ufimka It's better to store it under a canopy or in a garage, flip it upside down, and this will prevent the buildup of sediment inside the hull, which in winter can turn into ice and deform thin sheets of skin. If the boat is stored outside, be sure to cover it with an awning to protect the rubber seals and wooden elements from ultraviolet.
⚠️ Attention: Do not keep the boat Ufimka for a long time on one keel or on sharp supports without support along the entire length of the bottom, as this can lead to irreversible deformation of the hull ("hump").
In summer, if the boat is standing on water, the shell and algae fouling on aluminum is slower than on wood or plastic, but still possible. Periodic cleaning of the bottom with a soft brush will help maintain driving performance at a high level without damaging the protective oxide layer.
Ufimka-2 is the choice for those who value reliability and maintainability over comfort and ease of transportation. It is a hard-boat for local water bodies.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I put an 8 hp engine on Ufimka-2?
Technically, it can be done, but it is categorically not recommendedThe transom design and the overall stability of the boat are not designed for this power, which can lead to the boat capsizing at full speed or the destruction of the stern of the hull.
What to fix the hole in the aluminum side of Ufamka?
For repairing holes, it is best to use cold welding for aluminum (for example, ABRO or Poxipol It's a temporary measure, or it's a sealant that puts aluminum on the rivets, and it's not good enough to keep tin soldering on the AMG5 without any special fluxes.
How many people can really fit in Ufimka-2?
The boat is formally a two-seater, and in practice, two middle-aged adults feel fine, and a third person (or child) can only be accommodated with minimal cargo and calm water, but this is already considered a safety overload.
Do I need to paint Ufamka inside?
The interior painting is not required unless there is a trace of corrosion, the aluminum itself is protected by an oxide film, but the painting with epoxy soils or special paints for boats (for example, the oxide film). interflat) will facilitate the care, prevent dirt from sticking and improve appearance.