In the world of boating technology, the term “outboard motor paddle” is often puzzling for beginners, since the classical scheme implies the separation of thrust (screw) and control (paddle). However, we are talking about a specific class of electric motors, where the role of the propulsion element is played by a screw encased in a casing or having a shape resembling an oar, or these are systems that combine the functions of stroke and traction in one assembly. Such devices are becoming increasingly popular among owners of light inflatable boats and kayaks, where every kilogram of weight and noiselessness of cruising.
The main advantage of these systems is that they are versatile and easy to maintain, unlike the powerful gasoline units. electric motor With paddle-like drive, it doesn't require complex preparation for the season, mixing fuel and regularly changing oil. It's an ideal solution for fishing, where engine noise can scare fish, or for quiet walks in waters with limited access for ICE. The design of such engines often allows them to be used as a complete replacement for traditional stroke, significantly saving the power of the angler.
It is worth noting that the market offers a variety of options, from simple electric johns to complex systems with remote control. Understanding the principle of operation and design features will help you make the right choice without overpaying for unnecessary functions. In this article, we will discuss in detail the design of such units, their advantages over classic screw motors and the nuances of operation that every boater should know.
Constructive features and principle of operation
The basis of any motorboat It's a DC motor that transmits rotation to the working organ, and in the case of a paddle motor, this working organ can be a propeller with elongated blades or a special turbine enclosed in a fairing, which reduces the risk of algae getting stuck and minimizes noise from cavitation. Noise insulation This is achieved not only by the absence of explosions in the cylinders, but also by the hydrodynamic shape of the propulsion system.
Many models are equipped with a telescopic foot, which allows you to adjust the depth of the screw immersion. This is critical in shallow waters, where a classic screw can damage the bottom or wind grass. Speed control is usually done by turning the handle or through a remote block with buttons, which makes navigation intuitive even for children. The system of mounting to the transom is often versatile and suitable for most types of boats.
⚠️ Warning: When operating a paddle-shaped propeller motor in shallow water, always keep an eye on the engine temperature. Although water cooling is often absent in such models (using air or water washing of the body), overheating of the windings during prolonged operation at maximum power can cause the engine to fail.
An important element of the design is pulpIt's not just for directional control, but also for altitude fixing. Some advanced models have autopilot or GPS anchors, although this is rare for budget "fun" materials. The housing materials are usually a durable plastic or composite that is resistant to corrosion and impact on rocks.
Why is a screw called a paddle?
The term "oar" in the title is often used marketingly to refer to the shape of the blades or the way the attachment resembles a switch. In fact, the physical principle of operation remains screwy: creating traction by throwing water back, rather than rowing, as a classic paddle.
Advantages and disadvantages over classic screws
Comparative. plug-in With a traditional outboard motor, you have to take into account the specifics of the pond and the tasks, the main advantage is the environmental friendliness and the absence of exhaust gases. You can safely fish in closed bays or on paid water bodies where gasoline engines are prohibited. The absence of vibrations also has a positive effect on the comfort of being in the boat, especially on long journeys.
However, this design has its limitations. Speed. If a classic motor accelerates a boat to 20-30 km/h, electric motors of this type rarely exceed 5-7 km/h, which makes them unsuitable for water skiing or quickly overcoming long distances against the current, but for trolling it is ideal.
- 🔇 Complete silence of work, allowing you to sneak up on the fish.
- ⚖️ Low weight and compactness, which is convenient for transportation in the trunk of a passenger car.
- 🔋 No need for fuel and fuel, electricity to charge the battery.
- 🌿 Environmental cleanliness and no smell of gasoline in the boat.
Another important aspect is the cost of ownership: The initial purchase may seem expensive, but the lack of gasoline and oil costs makes operation very cheap. Resource The electric engine with proper care is calculated in thousands of motor hours, which is comparable to the best examples of Japanese gasoline engines.
Selection criteria: power and traction
When choosing motorboat The key is not only horsepower (or watts) but also the thrust generated. Traction is measured in pounds (lbs) or kilograms and indicates the engine's ability to push a boat with a certain load. A lightweight inflatable boat with a single angler can suffice a 30-40 lbs motor, whereas a crewed metal boat will require 50-60 lbs or more.
It's important to pay attention to battery voltage. Most low-power models run at 12 volts, but more powerful units can require 24 or even 36 volts, which means you need to connect multiple batteries in series or buy a specialized battery. Capacity The battery directly affects battery life: the more ampere hours, the longer you can be on the water without recharging.
The table below will help to orient in approximate accordance with the thrust and weight of the boat:
| Traction (lbs) | Traction (kg) | Max. Boat weight (kg) | Recommended voltage |
|---|---|---|---|
| 30-36 | 13-16 | 500 | 12 V |
| 40-45 | 18-20 | 700 | 12 V |
| 50-55 | 22-25 | 900 | 12/24 In |
| 60-70 | 27-31 | 1200 | 24 In |
If your boat weighs 450 kg, you should choose a model with a thrust reserve, and running the engine at its limit will lead to a quick discharge of the battery and shorten the life of the brushes or controller. Power reserve It will also make you feel more confident in the wave or headwind.
Rule of choice: Always choose a motor with 20 to 30 percent more thrust than the minimum required for your weight, which will prolong the life of the battery and provide a range.
Batteries and Autonomous Operation Time
The heart of any electric motor is the power source. motorboat Normal starter car batteries designed for short-term high current output are absolutely not suitable. You will need Deep Cycle batteries that can give off energy in small portions for a long time and withstand a deep discharge.
The most popular option is lead-acid batteries like AGM or GEL, which are reliable, relatively cheap and safe (no maintenance required), but they are heavy. Lithium-Iron-Phosphate (LiFePO4) They're 2-3 times lighter than lead, have a longer capacity and lifespan, but cost a lot more.
The engine's operating time depends on a variety of factors: rotor speed, wind strength, current and battery status. At the lowest speed, the engine can run 4-6 hours, while at the maximum speed, the time is reduced to 40-60 minutes. So always plan the route with return to base.
⚠️ Warning: Never discharge a lead-acid battery below 50% of its capacity. Deep discharge irreversibly reduces battery life. LiFePO4 discharges to 80-90%, but it is better not to test them for strength.
To monitor the condition of the battery, it is recommended to use voltmeters or special charge indicators, which are often built into the motor's pump. If you notice a sharp drop in voltage under load, this is a signal that the battery is worn out or does not meet current output requirements. Charger It should also be of high quality, with automatic shutdown at full charge.
Take a multimeter with you to the boat. A simple measurement of the voltage at the battery terminals before leaving and during fishing will help you accurately assess the rest of the turn and not stay in the middle of the reservoir.
Installation and tuning on the transom
Mounting an electric motor on a boat is usually easy, but requires certain safety rules. A standard transom must withstand not only the weight of the motor, but also dynamic loads when moving. Inflatable boats often use special mounts that cover the cylinders to avoid damaging the material.
The installation process begins with the fixation of the clamp bracket on the transom. It is important to place the motor strictly in the center of the diametric plane of the boat. The distortion will lead to the sideways and increased energy consumption. The depth of the propeller is adjusted so that it is at least 15-20 cm under water, but does not touch the bottom.
- 🔧 Tighten all the mount bolts with the force recommended by the manufacturer using the thread lock.
- 🌊 Check the inclination angle of the lower unit: it should be perpendicular to the surface of the water when moving.
- 🔌 Make sure the wires are not clamped and have no contact with water or sharp edges.
- ⚓ Conduct a test run on a tether or in shallow water before going to depth.
If you use a rotary-rotor motor, make sure that the rotary rotor is not limited to the sides of the boat or the seats, and in some cases, you need to install extension handles or change the position of the floorboards. Tightness Connections are a key point, especially if you plan to fish in the rain or in the wave.
☑️ Check before the first launch
Service and extension
Despite the simplicity of the design, electric motor After every fishing trip, especially in salt water, the device must be washed with fresh water, salt and silt can corrosion metal parts and contaminate mobile joints, pay special attention to the gums and the entry points of the shaft into the lower unit.
Lubrication of moving parts should be carried out according to the instructions. Usually you need to remove the screw and apply special water-resistant lubrication to the shaft. Conservation In winter, it involves cleaning, lubricating and storing it in a dry room at a positive temperature, and it also needs to be stored charged and recharged periodically.
Periodically check the condition of the engine brushes (if you have them in your model), their wear leads to power drop and sparkling. Replacing brushes is a simple procedure, but requires care, and it is also worth checking the condition of the insulation of the wires, which can be rubbed against the transom during active operation.
How to store the engine in winter?
Winter storage of the electric motor requires preparation: completely clean the case of dirt, lubricate all metal surfaces, disconnect and charge the battery. Store the motor in an upright position so that oil (if there is in the gearbox) does not flow through the glands. The ideal storage temperature is from +5 to +20 degrees Celsius.
What to do if the engine is humming but not spinning?
If you hear a buzz, but the screw is not rotating, maybe a line or algae has wound on the shaft, and it may indicate a brush sticking or a malfunction of the controller, first of all, turn off the power, lift the motor and clean the screw manually, if the problem does not resolve, you will need a diagnosis in the service.
Can I use the motor in salt water?
Most modern electric motors have corrosion protection, but prolonged exposure to salt water requires fresh water washing after each use. If you often fish at sea, choose models labeled "Saltwater" or additionally treat metal parts with anti-corrosion sprays.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
How many miles can you swim on a single charge?
The distance depends on the battery capacity and speed. On average, at one speed (about 3-4 km / h) with a 100 Ah battery, you can swim 15-20 km. At maximum speed, the range is reduced to 5-7 km.
Will this engine be suitable for a PVC boat 3 meters long?
Yes, a 3-meter-long PVC motor with a thrust of 30-40 lbs (about 1.5-2 hp equivalent) is ideal for a PVC boat, which will provide a speed of about 5-6 km / h, which is enough for movement and fishing.
Do I need to register an electric motor in GIMS?
Under current Russian law, boats with engines of more than 8 kW (about 10.8 hp) are subject to registration. Since the power of electric motors-gaggles usually does not exceed 1-2 hp, registration is not required for them if the total length of the boat is less than 20 meters.
Can I charge the battery in the boat?
It is strongly advised not to charge the battery while it is installed in the boat, especially lead-acid. During charging gases may be released, and the risk of short circuit in humid conditions is too great.