Re: [PSUBS-MAILIST] Need advice, new builder.

[Stan Muller <smuller@iland.net>]

Hi All,
   Well, here I am back from the drawing board, and I think with an
improved design. 
   I am taking approximately 18 inches off the bow, and approximately 14
inches off the stern. Reinstalling both end bells  at the new shortened
ends, and then putting the top 1/2 of the cut off back on as ballast
tanks. Basically the same as the bow on G. Kittredge's first sub. This
will both lessen my displacement, and increase my flotation.
   One of my greater concerns has been mechanical through hull fittings
and from that, came another idea I would like feedback on. (please)
   My thought is to install a hydraulic pump inside the boat, and a
hydraulic motor outside with a 4 bladed, 14 inch prop with a 12 inch
pitch. The inboard pump will be peddle driven, with a closed system to
the pump. That way, my only through fittings will be pipe fittings.
   There is no way to express my appreciation for the help the people on
this list have been. I have built several boats, but this being my first
sub, I had developed tunnel vision trying to design the darn thing so it
would sink, never really taking into account the fact it would have to
float high enough to be able to get in and out of the hatch. Foolish I
admit, but true. Not only has this become a fun project, and at 65 I
haven't as many of those as I once did, But the opportunity to learn has
become more rewarding than the project itself.
Thank you Carsten, and thank you all,
Stan in Missouri.