The choice of a first or new swimming aid is always associated with the analysis of many parameters, and motorboat North 520 This model is a classic example of how affordable price can be combined with practicality and time-tested design. In domestic water bodies, where the bottom relief is often unpredictable and weather conditions change rapidly, reliability becomes the main criterion of choice.
Designers from Petrozavodsk have created a universal platform that feels equally good both on fishing in the Volga Delta and during family walks along Ladoga. Aluminum alloy AMg5MThe stainless gas used in manufacturing provides excellent weldability and high corrosion resistance, which is what makes the body resistant to mechanical damage when in contact with rocky bottoms or snags.
In this review, we will take a detailed look at all aspects of the operation of this model, from the geometric dimensions to the nuances of the attachment installation. North 520 It has been a bestseller for many years, despite the emergence of new competitors, and understanding the technical features will help you make an informed decision about buying and properly prepare the boat for the season.
Design features of the body and materials
The basis of the durability of this model is the use of aluminium-alloyUnlike steel, this material does not rust, which is critical to maintaining the presentation and strength of the structure for decades, and the thickness of the bottom and sides is selected with a margin, which allows you to confidently go out into the water even in shallow water conditions, where there is a high risk of impact on hidden underwater obstacles.
⚠️ Note: Despite the high strength of aluminum, avoid long parking on concrete or rocky shores without a special stand, as point pressure can lead to deformation of contours.
The geometry of the housing is designed with the need to create a comfortable wave. bottom silhouette The squinting area of the transom provides excellent germination on the wave, which makes the movement soft even in lateral turbulence, while the moderate width of the cheekbones allows the boat to easily enter the plane even with the least powerful engines, saving fuel to the owner.
The quality of welds, which are automatically welded in a protective gas environment, deserves special attention. tightness And there are no microcracks that you would have if you cooked manually, and the design is to have a timber around the perimeter, which protects the timber when you dock or when you board with another boat.
Ergonomics of the cockpit and layout
Interior space North 520 The cockpit is divided into several functional zones, allowing you to place equipment, gear and personal belongings in the order necessary for a particular fishing or walk. The presence of knobs under the seats significantly increases the usable volume without compromising the free space of the passengers' feet.
The boat is managed by means of consoleThe ergonomics of the steering station are designed so that all the necessary instruments and controls are within line of sight and reach of the hands, which reduces fatigue during long transitions.
Passenger seats are equipped with soft removable cushions that are easy to clean and dry quickly, and the bow has a spacious trunk where you can fold an anchor, a life jacket or an additional fuel supply, which makes the boat suitable not only for day exits, but also for multi-day expeditions.
Technical specifications and compatibility with motors
One of the key issues when choosing a boat is the power of the recommended engine. North 520 The manufacturer has determined the optimal power range that allows you to unleash the potential of the body without the risk of transom overloading, and the right choice of motor affects not only speed, but also handling and safety.
Below is a table of the main technical parameters that will help you navigate the capabilities of this model:
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Longest length | 5200 mm | Full length by roundabout |
| largest width | 1860 mm | In cheekbones |
| Height of board | 750 mm | Midle |
| Load capacity | 500 kg | Including passengers and equipment |
| Recommended capacity of PM | up to 40 hp | Optimum 20-30 hp. |
Installation outboard It's important to consider the weight of the engine and its effect on differentiation. Too heavy motor can land on the stern, which will lead to burrowing of the nose in the wave and reduce the efficiency of planing. It is recommended to choose engines weighing up to 80 kg to maintain perfect balance.
When installing the motor, use a dynamometer key to tighten the bolts of the mounting of the tann suspension - this will prevent vibrational weakening of the fastener during the turn.
Manageability and driving performance on water
The test results show that North 520 It's a very confident water-based boat that can easily get on plane mode, even with a full load and two passengers, and with the keeled contours, the shocks to the wave are extinguished by the body, which allows you to ride comfortably without shaking or hitting the spine.
When cornering, the boat tilts predictably, allowing the steering wheel to control the situation, but it is worth remembering that aluminum boats are less weight than fiberglass counterparts, so in a strong storm or at a very high wave should slow down. Resilience The parking lot is also at a good level, allowing fishermen to move around the cockpit.
⚠️ Attention: When driving at high speeds in conditions of strong side wind, the sailing of the boat can increase, which requires constant steering correction.
An important aspect is noise insulation. The aluminum body is good at conveying the sound of the engine and the splash of water, so for long-term comfort, many owners install additional noise insulation on the bottom and on the side, which is especially true when using two-stroke engines.
Maintenance and preparation for winter storage
The durability of the boat depends on the quality of care. aluminum It doesn't require painting, because the oxide film protects the metal, but regular freshwater washing after each release into the salt water is mandatory, and this prevents electrochemical corrosion and white oxide spots.
☑️ Checklist for winter preparations
In the off-season, it is recommended to inspect all fasteners. Vibration when the engine is running can weaken the joints, so pulling bolts and nuts is a necessary procedure, and the state of the transom plate should also be inspected for stratification or rotting, if it is made of plywood.
Keeping the boat in an upside down position under a canopy or in a garage to prevent rainfall from entering the interior, if this is not possible, use quality awnings that fit tightly to the hull but provide ventilation, preventing condensation.
Secrets of durability of transcoat plate
Replacing a wooden transom plate with a composite or sea plywood with impregnation can increase the service life of the stern part of the boat by 2-3 times, since standard plywood is prone to absorb moisture through microcracks in gelcoat or paint.
Modernization and tuning for fishing
Many owners do not stop at the factory configuration and carry out tuning One of the most popular improvements is the installation of sonars and navigation chartplotters, which is to put displays in the console or on the brackets, which makes the pleasure boat a professional fishing tool.
Another common improvement is the awning transformer, which protects against the scorching sun in summer and rain in the off-season, and the awning design allows you to fold it quickly or remove it completely without taking up much space when transporting on a trailer.
Also worth considering is the possibility of installing additional anchor systems: Having a cat anchor or Hall anchor with a quick-removal mechanism will allow you to quickly lock the boat at the fishing point even in strong current or wind.
Competent tuning is able to turn a standard serial boat into an individual vessel that fully meets the specific requirements of the owner for comfort and functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
What is the real speed of the boat North 520 with an engine of 30 hp?
When loaded by two passengers and the minimum amount of equipment, the speed on planing is about 35-40 km / h With full load, the speed can decrease to 25-30 km / h depending on the state of the water and the propeller.
Do I need to paint an aluminum boat inside?
Painting inside is optional, as aluminum does not rust, but epoxy paint can make cleaning easier and protect against scratches, as well as improve the aesthetics of the interior.
Can North 520 be used to reach Lake Ladoga?
Yes, the boat's design allows access to large bodies of water, but only in favorable weather, and Ladoga is known for its insidiousness, so you should go on it with great caution, with communication equipment and life jackets.
Which screw is better to choose for this boat?
The optimal choice is a screw with a pitch corresponding to the power of the motor (usually a step of 9-10 inches for 20-30 hp). For severe conditions and full load, you can experiment with screws with a reduced pitch for better plane.
Does the boat have a self-touting cockpit?
There is no self-draining cockpit as standard, and water is removed through scuppers when rolled or by hand pumped, but some modifications or modifications by owners may include an auto-drying system.