RAAF 011 Tender Saved?? I hope so.

[Lang]

Rick,

I think I remember where there is a marinised Dodge engine. Will try to track it down.

These little jiggers would really have scooted along with 90hp and semi-planing hull.

Lang

[Mike Cecil]

Rick,

Do you know who the manufacturer was? Nice ... and unusual ... find.

Mike C

[motto]

Hi Rick

I know nothing of these boats but the mention of Dodge/Chrysler marine engines rang a faint bell. Hughes Trading Company were selling 3-1/4" pistons for use in the 230 cubic inch Dodge engines for many years. The odd part was that they came in sets of eight and I'm sure I remember being told were intended for a straight eight Chrysler marine engine.

I've never encountered such an engine but I wonder?

David

[Mike Cecil]

Dave,

You may be referring to the Army's similar looking 25-foot Utility Launch built in Victoria. It was powered by Chrysler Royal 8 cylinder petrol engine of 143 hp (or a Vosper marinised Ford V8). That might account for finding the pistons at Hughes, too (Victorian local disposal).

Or maybe the two (Army and RAAF) were the same basic boat? At well over 100 hp, the little 25-footer must have been quick through the water!

Mike C

[cliff]

Both the straight 6 and straight 8 Chrysler (Dodge) engines were used in marine configuration. I have seen both in New Zealand over the years.

Great save mate

[Jes Andersen]

Interesting find. Is it planked or plywood?

Many Chrysler marine engines were in use on fishing boats and pleasure craft and some still survive. They are marinized with water cooled manifold and sea water cooling and a marine gear to drive the shaft. The ones I recall seeing were 265 but I know they were available in the smaller displacements. Search on Chrylser Crown marine engines and you will find the rest of the story. Lots of parts available in Vancouver B.C. or Seattle and probably other places too.

Jes

[Hanno Spoelstra]

Great piece of marine history you saved there, Rick! Here's hoping she will ride the waves once again.

IIRC, Dirk Leegwater once had a straight eight Dodge engine for sale .....

H.