Legendary Southerner 2 The boat is one of the most popular projects for self-construction and modernization among domestic water engines, and attracts with its simplicity, availability of materials and excellent driving performance, but the factory or basic version often requires improvements. Owners strive to improve seaworthiness, improve habitability and adapt the hull to modern requirements of comfort and safety on the water.
Competent tuning allows you to turn a simple "iron" into a full-fledged pleasure and fishing boat, the modernization process affects not only aesthetics, but also constructive changes, such as: bottom-upIt is important to understand that any interference with the structure must be measured so as not to disturb the stability and unsinkability of the vessel.
In this article, we will discuss in detail the key stages of modernization, drawing on the experience of real boat owners and proven technical solutions, you will learn how to correctly calculate loads, what materials to use for lining and how to organize the space inside the cockpit for maximum efficiency.
Design analysis and modernization planning
Before you take on the Bulgarian and welding machine, you need to conduct a thorough analysis of the current condition of the case. Southerner 2 It has characteristic contours with sharp cheekbones, which ensures good germination on the wave, but requires accuracy when amplified. Incorrect weight distribution or excessive thickening of the metal can adversely affect driving performance and handling.
The first step is always to assess the thickness of the metal and the condition of the welds. Often older boats have hidden corrosion that must be eliminated before tuning begins. defectiveness to identify weaknesses, especially in the area of the timber and the connection of the transnos to the bottom.
⚠️ Warning: When planning to install a more powerful motor, be sure to recalculate the load per transom. The standard version may not withstand a sharp increase in traction without additional gain.
Planning also involves choosing the boat's destination: Will it be a high-speed fishing plane or a quiet cruising option? geometry And the location of the rundoos is critical for fishing, stability in anchorage, and for cruising, comfort of landing and protection from splashes.
Body reinforcement and trans-trans reworking
One of the most common problems of the basic equipment is the insufficient strength of the transom, especially when installing motors with a capacity of more than 30 hp. transaxialization by brewing additional scarves and using thicker sheet aluminum or AMG alloy.
The reinforcement process begins with the dismantling of the old transom (if it is removable) or the cleaning of the inside of the feed surface. New elements are patterned to accommodate the overlap on the welds. It is important to use electrodes or wire corresponding to the brands of aluminum in the case to avoid galvanic corrosion in the future.
- 🛠️ Use an aluminum sheet at least 4 mm thick for the inside of the transom.
- ⚓ Install additional longitudinal stringers to distribute the load from the motor.
- 🔩 Apply sealed bolt connections for removable gain elements.
In parallel with the transom often carried out bottom-up This increases the survivability of the boat when going ashore or in shallow water, and additional strips of metal are welded along the cheekbones, creating a kind of buffer that takes on the impacts of obstacles.
☑️ Testing transanse gain
Manufacturing and installation of the deck (floorboard)
The full deck is the most significant step in tuning, changing the level of comfort, and not only does the deck protect against splashes and rain, but it also serves as the basis for mounting seats, rundooks and navigation equipment. Southerners 2 The optimal solution is considered to be the creation of a removable structure of plywood coated with fiberglass or sheet aluminum.
When designing a deck, you need to provide hatches for access to the bow and under the cockpit runduks, the design must be rigid so as not to bend under the weight of passengers, but also light enough not to overload the boat, often using an aluminum frame on which sheet material is lined.
So you have to pay special attention to drainage, and the deck doesn't have to be a pool, so you have to design the system. plum-spigatesThe water that gets inside the cockpit should flow freely overboard without stagnating in the corners.
| Deck material | Weight (kg/sqm) | Strength | Difficulty of installation |
|---|---|---|---|
| Plywood + glass fabric | ~12 | High. | Medium |
| Aluminum leaf (2mm) | ~5.5 | Medium | Low. |
| Composite panels | ~8 | Very high. | High. |
Secrets of deck installation
To reduce noise and vibration between the frame and the deck sheet, it is recommended to lay strips of technical rubber or foamed polyethylene, which will also prevent creaking when moving along the wave.
Organization of internal space and runduk
Effective use of the internal volume of the boat is the key to convenient fishing and recreation. Southerner 2 The space below deck is ideal for the organization of sealed hazelnuts, which serve not only as storage for things, but also as buoyancy blocks, increasing the unsinkability of the boat.
Handuks should be placed along the sides and in the bow. The design should ensure that the covers are securely fixed so that they do not open spontaneously on the move. For anglers, it is important to provide special compartments for gear, batteries and spare fuel.
- 🎣 Make folding tables on the sides to place a sonar or snack.
- 🔋 Organize a ventilated battery compartment with access for maintenance.
- 💡 Conduct LED backlighting inside the rundooks to look for things in the dark.
When planning the interior, remember to walk through the passageways. Movement inside the cockpit should not be hampered by bulky drawers. All corners of furniture and rundooks should be rounded or protected with soft pads to avoid injuries when rolling hard.
⚠️ Warning: Don't overload the nose with heavy haunches. Shifting the center of gravity forward can cause the boat to bury in the wave and slow down.
Selection of power unit and installation of outboard motor
Tuning a boat is unthinkable without choosing the right engine. Southerners 2 With a reinforced transx and deck, the optimal power range is considered 30-50 hp This allows you to confidently get on plane even with a full load and passengers.
When installing the engine, it is important to correctly choose the height of the suspension and the angle of the trim. Incorrect installation can lead to cavitation, overheating of the engine or lowering the maximum speed. hydrofoil (propelling screw stabilizer) to improve plane output and stabilize stroke.
It is also worth considering the possibility of installing an electric traction motor on the nose for trolling, which will require additional preparation of the site and laying power cables along the side, the electric motor is silent and does not create odor, which is highly appreciated when fishing carefully.
To save fuel and increase range, install a fuel consumption sensor and GPS tracker on the engine, which will allow you to accurately calculate the residues and optimal speed.
Corrosion protection and finishing paint
Aluminum, although resistant to corrosion, in aggressive aqueous environments requires protection, especially in places of welds and mechanical damage. Before painting, sandblasting or thorough cleaning of surfaces to metallic shine must be performed.
The painting technology involves applying acid soil (phosphate) that creates an adhesive layer, then epoxy soil and finishing polyurethane enamel, a coating system that provides durability and a bright appearance that is resistant to ultraviolet and salt water.
Pay special attention high-quality degreasing Even microscopic grease or dust residues can cause the paint to peel off during operation. Use special solvents that keep the film out.
- 🎨 Use two-component enamel for maximum resistance of the coating.
- 🧼 Apply rust converters in areas with oxidation before primer.
- 🖌️ Apply paint in 2-3 thin layers, observing the time intervals of drying.
High-quality surface preparation and use of specialized marine soils is 90% of the success in the fight against corrosion of the aluminum shell.
FAQ: Frequently Asked Questions about Tuning South 2
What is the maximum power of the engine can be put on the South 2?
With a standard transom, 30 hp is considered a safe limit, however, after qualitatively strengthening the transom and bottom, as well as installing a full-fledged deck, the boat confidently holds engines with a capacity of up to 50-60 hp Exceeding this limit can be dangerous due to loss of stability.
Do I need to make a kielson when installing the deck?
Yes, the installation of a longitudinal quill or multiple transom cans is mandatory. A deck without support will be operated on a bending under load, which will lead to crumbling mounts and discomfort. The quillson also enhances the longitudinal rigidity of the entire body.
What is the best way to paint an aluminum boat at home?
At home, two-component polyurethane paints applied with a brush or roller (airless spraying) are best proven, they are less demanding than automotive enamel, and form a very durable coating.
How to calculate the load capacity after tuning?
You need to subtract the weight of all the additional elements installed (deck, handbags, reinforcements) from the rated carrying capacity. Also take into account the weight of the full tank and engine. The remaining amount is the payload (passengers and equipment).