Many small boat owners, especially PVC inflatable boats, sooner or later face the question of improving the functionality of their boat. One of the most popular and effective solutions is the installation of a special frame, which is called a targa among water engines. Targa for boat is a power structure mounted on a transom, which serves to fasten the outboard motor and install additional attachments.
Unlike a simple targa bar, the targa allows you to move the mounting point of the motor further from the stern, which is critical for the correct alignment of the boat. This is especially true for high-speed sliding vessels, where the shift of the center of gravity affects driving performance and safety. Understanding what the targa is and why it is needed will help you avoid common mistakes when operating a boat on the water.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the design features of various models, materials and nuances of installation. You will learn why many anglers and tourists choose this element of tuning and how it can extend the life of your boat. Competent approach to the selection of accessories - the guarantee of a comfortable rest on the water.
The main purpose and functionality of the target
The main task of any target is to transfer the point of application of the tractive power of the motor. The standard transom of the boat is often located too close to the stern section, which, when installed, leads to the burying of the boat's nose in the wave. Takeaway transom, which is essentially the targa, allows you to move the motor back, lifting the nose and improving the output for planing.
Targa also serves as a universal platform for navigation equipment, and it is convenient to attach sonars, GPS navigators, sonar sensors and even small battery packs in sealed boxes across the cockpit, which is always scarce on small boats. Ergonomics of space It's getting much higher.
⚠️ Attention: The use of the target increases the engine's leverage on the transom. Make sure that your boat is designed to install a remote transom, otherwise damage to the inflatable tubes or the transom plate may occur.
Also worth noting is the safety feature: When the motor is tarred, the engine's lower unit is further away from the bottom and possible obstacles in the water, such as rocks or driftwoods, which reduces the risk of damage to the screw or gearbox when driving in shallow water. Safety of the screw An important aspect for fishing in unfamiliar water bodies.
Design features and types of target
Structurally, the tarmac is divided into several types depending on the way it is attached and shaped. The most common option is a U-frame that is worn on top of a transom, and these models often have height-adjustable racks, allowing them to be adapted to different boat models and engine height.
There are also models with additional side brackets that are attached to inflatable tubes through special pockets or belts, which provides additional rigidity of the structure and distributes the load not only on the transom, but also on the board. Load distribution reduces the risk of deformation of the transom plate during long-term operation.
And the folding structures are very special, and they're made of several sections connected by hinges, so you can compactly stack the targa for transportation in a case with a boat, and for owners of cars with a small trunk, this becomes a crucial factor in their choice. Mobility of the kit The packaged form greatly simplifies logistics.
- 🔹 Stationary welded structures of maximum rigidity for heavy motors
- 🔹 Prefabricated bolt models that can be disassembled if necessary
- 🔹 Adjustable telescopic racks for precise height adjustment
- 🔹 Combined variants with integrated shelves for equipment
Manufacture materials: aluminum or stainless steel
The choice of material for the label is a question of balance between weight, strength and cost. the absolute leader in this niche is aviation aluminum, in particular alloys of the D16T series. This material is highly durable at relatively low weight and excellent corrosion resistance, especially after anodizing.
Stainless steel is used less frequently, mainly for fasteners or in premium models where weight is not a critical parameter. Steel targs are heavier, which can adversely affect the overall carrying capacity of a light inflatable boat. Weight load The per-transm must always remain within the permissible values.
All metal elements must be protected from contact with aggressive aqueous environments, quality products are treated with oxidation or coated with powder paints. Protective coating prevents the appearance of oxides and maintains the aesthetic appearance of the product for many seasons.
When choosing a target, pay attention to the quality of welds. They should be smooth, without pores and inflows, since this is where corrosion most often begins.
Plastic and composite materials are almost never used in the production of power elements of the target due to low strength on fracture and torsion. Metal remains the only choice for safety. Only metal alloys guarantee resistance to vibrational loads of the motor.
Comparison of specifications of different models
When choosing a particular model, you need to consider many parameters, from the load capacity to compatibility with your boat. Below is a table comparing the main types of designs available in the market.
| Type of design | Materials | Weight (kg) | Max engine power (hp) | Difficulty of installation |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| The P-classic | Aluminum D16T | 3.5 - 4.5 | 15 | Low. |
| Strengthened with sidewalls | Aluminum + Stainless steel | 5.0 - 6.5 | 25 | Medium |
| Foldable (telescope) | aluminum | 4.0 - 5.0 | 18 | High. |
| With an integrated box. | Aluminum + Plastic | 6.0 - 8.0 | 20 | Medium |
As you can see from the table, the weight of the structure depends on its functionality. Reinforced models are able to withstand more powerful motors, but require the corresponding strength of the transom of the boat. Compatibility of specifications Boats and targas are a key choice parameter.
Models with integrated boxes are convenient for storing small things, but increase the sailing and overall weight of the stern, which can be noticeable in strong side winds. Aerodynamics It also plays a role in the selection of equipment.
Instructions for installing targas yourself
Targeting PVC boats usually requires no complex tools and can be done on their own at home, taking 15 to 40 minutes depending on the design of the product and the owner's experience, and the main thing is to follow the sequence of actions.
First, you need to inflate the boat to the working pressure and set it on a flat surface. Then try on the targa to the transom, making sure that it sits tight and does not sway, and adjust the height of the racks is done by rearranging the bolts in the holes or rotating the threaded joints.
☑️ Pre-installing check
Mounting is carried out by means of special belts with carabiners or bolt joints passing through the transom plate. If belts are used, they must be passed through special pockets on cylinders or fixed on the hinged beams without excessively clamping them. Set-belt fixation It should be reliable, but without damage to the PVC tissue.
After installation, be sure to check the tightening of all nuts. Under the influence of vibration of the working engine, threaded connections can weaken. It is recommended to use a grower or a thread lock. Puff control It should be done regularly.
⚠️ Warning: Never use the targa as a handle for carrying a boat with a suspended motor. The design may not withstand the dynamic load and weight of the engine at the same time.
Properly installed targa should not deform the transom or cause deflection of inflatable tubes under its own weight.
Operation and care of the remote transcen
The durability of the targ depends not only on the quality of the manufacture, but also on the operating conditions. After each release, especially in salt water, the metal elements must be washed with fresh water. Salt is an aggressive electrolyte and accelerates corrosion processes even on anodized surfaces.
Before long-term storage in winter, it is recommended to dismantle the targa, clean it of dirt and lubricate the movable joints (if any) with silicone lubrication. It is better to store the product in a dry room, eliminating contact with moist soil or concrete. Proper storage It prolongs the life of metal.
Check the condition of fasteners and slings regularly. The fabric has the ability to rub on the roughness of the transom or sharp corners of the fittings. If you find abrasions, you need to replace the belts. Integrity of the anchorage It guarantees safety on the water.
What to do if the targa has started to luft?
If you notice a backlash, first check the tightening of all bolt joints. If the backlash is left, the holes in the transom plywood may have worn out, in which case you need to install additional stainless steel reinforcement linings or aluminum between the transom and the targa.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I set the targa on the boat without a hard transom?
No, the only way to set the tariff is for boats with hard pasted transom (plywood, aluminum) and boats with inflatable transmuter board (NT) is to prohibit the use of remote transmuters, as the structure will not withstand the load and may collapse, leading to an emergency.
Does Targa Increase Fuel Consumption?
Targa itself does not increase fuel consumption; on the contrary, properly aligning a boat with it often allows the vessel to be plane faster and keep it there at lower engine speeds, which can even reduce fuel consumption.
Will universal targa be suitable for any boat?
Most of the targas are versatile and adjustable in width and height, but you should always check compatibility with the dimensions of your particular boat model, especially with the height of the transom and the diameter of the inflatable tubes.
Do I need to remove the engine when transporting a boat with a set target?
Yes, when transported assembled (boat + motor + targa) on a trailer or roof of the car, it is recommended to remove the engine, which reduces the wind load on the structure and prevents the breakage of the lower unit or transom during sharp jerks.