At the September meeting, Alan Delac gave us a comprehensive presentation on the construction and fitting out with an electric motor of his Scruffy Shimmy 12 “Sparky”.  Alan took us through the kit assembly and finishing processes, with photos showing a very fine example of the design.  He described the boat has feeling very strong and stable.

“Sparky” is fitted with a Torqeedo electric outboard motor, with thrust equivalent to a 2hp petrol outboard.  Alan has done considerable research and experimenting with battery types.

Anyone considering the use of batteries for propulsion would be well advised to discuss the subject with Alan.  Some of the advantages listed by Alan for an electric motor are the ease of starting, quiet and fume-free running.  Also, anybody can switch on an electric motor, but not everyone has the strength to start a petrol motor.