Legendary aluminum-boatKnown to many aquatics as the Zvezda-4, it has long been popular in the post-Soviet space, and it has become a popular fishing and hunting model because of its simplicity, maintainability and availability, and is now being transformed into a desire for factory performance by enthusiasts.
Many owners purchase old hulls for restoration or assemble a boat from scratch using preserved hulls. drawings The versatility of the design allows it to be used both as a paddle and as a low-power engine, but for a vessel to truly enjoy the water, you need to understand the intricacies of its design and possible ways of modernization, which we will discuss in detail below.
In this article, we will discuss the technical nuances, ways to strengthen the body and engine installation options. propeller A boat that feels confident in the water, and it's not just a description of the specifications, but a practical guide for those who value reliability and functionality.
History of appearance and design features
Designing a boat Star 420 It was an era in which the requirements of amateur boats were dictated by the availability of materials and ease of production, the main material was aviation aluminum, which had excellent corrosion resistance and low weight, the body was assembled on rivets, which made it airtight and durable, but required high-quality seams.
Structurally, it's a flat-bottomed vessel with high sides and a vertical forehead, and it's shaped to provide excellent parking stability, which is critical for fishing. The fisherman can move around without fear of a sharp roll, but on the go, it creates high water resistance.
⚠️ Warning: Flat bottom makes the boat sensitive to lateral wind and wave. When going out into open water with the motor, always consider the sailing of the high side.
To increase the strength of the bottom was often reinforced with additional stringers or bulges. factory equipment was often minimal, giving owners freedom to use. customizationIt is because of this that Star has become a platform for thousands of unique redesign projects.
Technical specifications of the body
The size of the vessel allows it to be transported on the roof of a passenger car or on a trailer without special permits. DP It's 4.2 meters, which is the optimal size for two or three people with a load, and the width of the midsection provides the necessary stability.
The weight of the empty hull depends on the thickness of the sheet used and the amount of fittings installed, which usually ranges from 60-70 kg, which allows you to launch a boat with two people, while carrying up to 400 kg of payload.
Below is a table with the main parameters that are important to consider when designing alterations or choosing a motor:
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Longest length | 4200 mm | Excluding the attachments |
| largest width | 1600 mm | Midel-spangout. |
| Height of board | 500 mm | Including the timber |
| Load capacity | 400 kg | Including the crew |
| Hull mass | ~65 kg | Depends on the configuration. |
It is important to understand that the actual specifications may differ from passport, especially if the boat has undergone repairs or modifications. the thickness of the sheet of the bottom skin should be at least 2 mm for confident planing, although the original was often made thinner.
Motor selection and transcretion
One of the main problems of the original "Star" is the lack of a full-fledged transom The factory design involved the use of oars, so owners have to self-cut the tanning board or weld brackets, the engine power should not exceed 5-8 hp, because the design is not designed for high speeds.
The engine is often fitted with removable transes that are attached to the sides on brackets, which allows the engine to be quickly dismantled and the boat to be used as a propeller, but the fixed insert provides greater reliability and safety when operated at full gas.
When choosing an engine, you should pay attention to the length of the lower unit. shaft (S) so that the propeller does not create excessive drag and cavitation, it is also important to correctly calculate the height of the engine installation relative to the bottom.
⚠️ Warning: Exceeding the recommended engine power can lead to the collapse of the slingboard and sinking of the boat.
Body-plating and reinforcement process
Restoration or construction of the Star often begins with the replacement of the skin. Old aluminum could get tired of stress or get multiple cracks. AMG5M or AMG6M Thinner metal will quickly become unusable from shocks against the wave.
The process of skinning requires precise marking and flexible sheets. It is important to ensure that the skin fits tightly to the frames and stringers. The rivet seam should be made in increments of no more than 30-40 mm to ensure leakage. Before riveting the joint, it is recommended to smear the thiocol sealant.
☑️ Checklist before launching
Bottom reinforcement is often done by installing longitudinal rods or boules, which not only increases the rigidity of the structure, but also improves driving performance, allowing the boat to go into mode more easily. planingBuilts also serve as additional buoyancy cylinders.
Internal layout and equipment
The interior of the boat requires a well-organized design, with a bow and aft can and two longitudinal sides, and often a soft seat with a hand-held storage compartment to enhance comfort, which allows for a rational use of the internal volume.
An important element is the installation of floorboards, which not only protect the feet from the cold of metal, but also hide possible leaks, allowing water to drain into the hold, and the floorboards are better made of moisture-resistant plywood coated with linoleum or carpet.
For night fishing or multi-day hikes, they often put up a tent shelter, the frame is made from dural pipes, and the awning is sewn from PVC fabric, which turns the boat into a full-fledged camper on the water, protecting it from rain and insects.
Safety and service at sea
The Zvezda is no exception to any type of equipment, and you should always have a scoop on board, even if you have an engine, and a flat bottom can leak from a blow to a hothouse, and you have to pump the water out manually. lifejackets It is mandatory for all passengers.
Regular maintenance involves inspecting rivet seams and smearing them with a sealant if needed. Aluminum is prone to electrochemical corrosion when in contact with other metals (such as stainless steel or brass), so use insulating pads.
Keep the boat upside down under the canopy so that there is no moisture or leaves inside, and if that is not possible, cover it with a breathable awning to avoid condensation, which accelerates the oxidation of the metal.
FAQ: Frequently asked questions
What is the maximum speed of a 420 Star boat?
With a motor of 5-6 hp and one passenger, the boat can reach a speed of about 15-18 km / h However, due to the flat bottom and high resistance, the speed of 10-12 km / h is considered comfortable.
Can we use Star 420 at sea?
Use at sea is only possible in slack weather and near shore. Design is not designed for sea waves. High side sails, flat bottom gives a hard impact load on the hull when turbulent. Sea requires keel boats with higher sides.
What is better to seal the seams during repair?
Aluminium is best suited for thiokol sealants (e.g. U-30MS) in combination with rivets of the same material (AMG). Silicon is not recommended because it does not hold vibration well and detachs from the metal over time.
Do I need to register such a boat in the GIMS?
Under current Russian regulations, registration is required for small vessels weighing more than 200 kg (with an engine) or with an engine of more than 8 hp (11.03 kW). If your boat is lighter and the engine is weaker, registration is not required, but the rights and documents for the engine can be requested by the inspector.