Legendary Southerner 2 The boat has a special place in the history of Soviet and post-Soviet small shipbuilding, a boat that has become synonymous with reliability and accessibility for millions of fishermen and hunters looking for a practical solution to go out on the water, and a design that dates back to the 70s still attracts attention due to its simplicity of shape and maintainability.
Many owners are wondering about the feasibility of buying or building this model in modern conditions. Aluminum alloysThe corrosion resistance of the boats used in the production process is excellent, making them durable even when used in salt water. Southerners-2 There are some features that require attention during operation and possible modernization.
In this article, we will discuss in detail all aspects of ownership of this boat. technical specifications, the nuances of installing an outboard motor, and also get valuable tips for strengthening the design that will prolong the life of your boat for many years.
Technical specifications and features of the body
The boat hull is designed with the expectation of calm water and light wave, which is typical for reservoirs and large rivers. Body length The cockpit is 4.5 meters wide and 1.6 meters wide, which provides sufficient stability afloat for two or three people with a load. The depth of the cockpit allows you to comfortably fit on banks without lacking legroom.
An important feature is the use of duraluminia It's a compromise solution, which is about 2 mm thick for the side and bottom, because the metal is strong enough to hold a bump against small obstacles, but the boat remains relatively easy to transport on a trailer. Engine bay. separated from the passenger by handdukes, which adds buoyancy and rigidity of the structure.
It is worth noting that the regular load capacity is limited, and overloading of the vessel can lead to a critical decrease in the capacity of the boat. freeboardOwners often note good stability, but with sudden movements of passengers on the cockpit, the boat can significantly tilt due to the narrow aft part.
- 🚤 Material: Aluminum alloy D16AT (duraluminum).
- ⚖️ Own weight: 140-150 kg (without motor and equipment)
- 👥 Passenger capacity: Up to 4 people (according to data-sheet figures).
- 🌊 Capacity: About 400 kg (including weight of people and cargo).
For those planning long-term parking, it is important to know that rivet Unlike welds, riveted structures are more prone to leaks under prolonged dynamic load, so regular inspection of the bottom is mandatory.
Installation of the outboard motor and strengthening of the transcrete
The regular transnet The Southern 2 was not originally designed for powerful modern engines. The basic design withstood engines with a capacity of up to 12-15 hp, but today many owners are looking to install more traction units. Tranx reinforcement This is the first and most important task before buying a new PM.
The modernization process usually begins with the installation of an additional bulkhead or scarf made of aluminum sheet of the same thickness as the base metal. Welding They require qualifications because duraluminium is sensitive to overheating and requires the use of argon or special fluxes. Incorrect cooking can lead to release of metal and loss of strength.
⚠️ Warning: When strengthening the transom, never use steel for scarves without aluminum insulation! Contact of heterogeneous metals in the water will cause instantaneous damage. electrochemicalIt will destroy the mount in one season.
After reinforcement, geometry must be checked. lower unit and motor angle, often require a mounting height to keep the screw running at optimum speed. gateway for the convenience of lifting the motor from the water without using a boat elevator.
You may have to move the battery and fuel tank closer to the nose or install additional buoyancy knobs in the stern to compensate.
Drawings and construction DIY
For many enthusiasts, construction Southerners-2 It's a way to get a quality boat at a fraction of the cost of a factory-made vessel, and drawings from Soviet times allow you to recreate original contours that have proven to be effective. Unlock the metal The first step requires maximum accuracy.
When self-assembling, it is critical to follow the technology of joining the sheets. If you do not own argon welding, it is better to use the technology of joining the sheets. rivet Before assembly, all parts are recommended to be assembled on a slip or flat area using temporary screeds.
Where can I find the actual drawings?
The drawings of the Yuzhanka-2 boat are freely available on many powerboating forums. Look for files with the.dwg or.cdw extension to work in CAD programs, or download scanned versions from Boat and Yacht magazines from the 70s and 80s. Pay attention to the scaling when printing.
Pay special attention sealingEven with high-quality riveting, it is recommended to smear the joints with thiokol sealants or special boat mastics, which will prevent micro leaks that can become noticeable only after prolonged parking.
| Parameter | Meaning | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Longest length | 4,500 mm | By the side. |
| largest width | 1600 mm | Midel-spangout. |
| Height of board | 600 mm | Midle. |
| Thickness of the skin | 2.0 mm | Bottom and boards |
| Power of PM | 30 hp. | With a reinforced transcension |
The final stage of construction is colouringThe use of epoxy soils and polyurethane enamels will provide protection against fouling and ultraviolet light. coating It directly affects the life of the product.
Modernization and tuning of the salon
Comfort on the water depends not only on the performance, but also on the inner leg. Southerner-2 It has a minimalist interior that's easy to improve, and you start by replacing the wooden cans with soft seats with moisture-resistant upholstery or hazelnuts.
Installation windshield It's a great way to make it more comfortable when you're driving against the wind, and you can make it out of Plexiglas or polycarbonate, and you can fix it on a dural frame, and it's not only a splash-proof, but it also allows you to use it. navigational without risking flooding them.
- 🔦 Lighting: Installation of LED tapes around the perimeter of the cockpit for night fishing.
- 🎣 Holders: Installation of brackets for fishing rods and sonar.
- 📦 Storage: Organization of sealed boxes under the cans for tools.
- 🛡️ Defense: Linings on board of rubber or PVC profile.
Another popular element of tuning is the installation tentYou can boil the frame from dural pipes, and the awning can be sewn from Oxford or Avisent, which will allow you to wait out the rain or take shelter from the scorching sun, turning the boat into a full-fledged camper on the water.
To fasten the awning, use not screws, but rivets with wide washers, which will prevent leakage in the mounting places and ensure reliable fixation of the frame in strong winds.
Don't forget. anchorageOn the nose. Southerners Often there is not enough convenient place to anchor, and the installation of a roller bracket and a cat anchor weighing 3-4 kg will make anchorages safe and convenient.
Operation and storage of the boat
Proper operation prolongs the life of the aluminum case, and after each release, especially in salt, you need to wash off the water. salt-plate Ignoring this rule leads to whitish corrosion spots that eventually turn into fistulas.
When stored on land, it is better to put the boat upside down on flat supports to avoid deformation of the hull under its own weight. slip-stackRepeat the contours of the bottom, or hang the boat on the slings.
⚠️ Warning: Never keep a boat with water left inside! frozen in winter water can expand and rupture rivet-stitch Or deform the thin metal of the skin.
Wintering should take place in a dry, ventilated room. If the boat remains outside, cover it with breathable material to avoid condensation under the awning. condensate Aluminum is the main enemy of aluminum in the off-season, causing oxidation even without direct contact with water.
Check your condition regularly The sacrificial anodes (zinc or magnesium) take on corrosion by protecting the main body, and it costs a penny to replace them compared to the bottom.
Comparison with analogues and final conclusions
Compared to modern PVC boats, Southern 2 is a strength and maintainability winner, and it can't be accidentally punctured with a branch or a rock in shallow water, but it loses weight and dimensions when assembled, requiring that it be punctured by a branch or a stone in shallow water. trailer or roofs for transportation.
Compared to other metal boats (Crimea, Kazanka), Southerner It is often considered more seaworthy due to its elongated stern and sharp cheekbone, which is softer in the wave, although it can prowl more strongly in lateral winds.
☑️ Pre-season checks
Cost of ownership South-Zhanka-2 Aluminum is not a difficult maintenance, is not afraid of impacts and lasts for decades, making it an ideal choice for the harsh conditions of Russian nature.
Southern 2 is a workhorse for those who value reliability over comfort, and with proper reinforcement and regular care, it will be a faithful companion for many years to come, keeping residual value at a high level.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Can I put a 30-horsepower engine on the South 2?
Yes, you can, but only after a serious strengthening of the transom. The regular transom may not withstand the vibration and weight of a powerful motor, which will lead to its separation. It is recommended to use engines up to 15-20 hp without modifications, and for 30 hp you need to cook additional bulkheads.
What is the best speed for the South 2?
The optimal speed is in the range of 20-25 km / h. The boat is difficult to planing, especially with full load. Exceeding the speed of 35-40 km / h can be dangerous because of the risk of loss of controllability on the wave.
What to fix leaks in an aluminum case?
Temporary repairs will be suitable for epoxy compounds with aluminum powder (“cold welding”). Major repairs require argon welding or aluminum patching on sealed rivets.
Do I need to paint the South Side inside?
You don't have to paint inside if you're comfortable with the appearance of the metal, but paint will make it easier to clean the cabin and protect the metal from harsh environments (such as fish or gasoline).