Riviera... sterndrive I/O possible??

bigblock · **Posted:** Tue Nov 02, 2010 9:35 pm

OK guys (and gals), I can’t be the only one who desires a classic styled runabout with sterndrive (I/O)! I would love to build the “Riviera” with a sterndrive and nice little V8 to round out the package. With _____loads of fiberglass boats at the end of their life hanging around, picking one up with complete running gear can be had for a song! Not quite as easy as clamping an outboard to my “Malahini”, but it is easier and MUCH cheaper than purchasing and installing an inboard and all it’s associated hardware (shaftlog, rudder, etc). I’m NOT a naval architect, and certainly don’t claim to be. But wondering hard about the ability of a runabout the size of the Malahini to support an I/O at the rear. Not worried about strength (that can be dealt with), but the buoyancy thing has me concerned. I see MUCH smaller boats with BIGBLOCKS and V-drives, with similar “shallow Vee” designs holding up rather well. Even Glen-L’s “Hotrod” and “Thunderbolts” are “rear engine designs”, and are much smaller at that! So just wondering if anybody has done any research on this, and can give me their “blessing”. I plan on starting with a scale 1/6th size model (almost finished with scale Malahini), and doing some of my own research with it, but would love to hear from anyone knowledgeable in the matter. I realize that ballast to offset weight is an option, but wondering with the 20’ length of the Riviera, is it even necessary? Thank you for any input.

Norm II

kens · **Posted:** Wed Nov 03, 2010 3:53 am

This subject has come up before, there is a lengthly post on this forum somewhere.
If I recall correctly, the consensus was that the forum in general was waiting for someone to try it with their build. Hatch clearance would likely be a concern since the tumblehome dont allow a lot of engine room.

try a search for that long thread post on this subject

DaveLott · **Posted:** Wed Nov 03, 2010 4:29 am

You are correct Ken - This was discussed with KH Barrelback but the same would apply to the Riviera.

there is only 15" of clearance at the transom between the engine stringers and deck framing.

There is no way to install a traditional I/O on a Riviera. There just is not enough room.

That being said, I understand there are I/O installations that allow a separation of the outdrive from the engine using a drive shaft for connectivity. That being the case, and the engine moved forward then it is a possibility

Bouyancy is not an issue. It is all about clearance

dave

kens · **Posted:** Wed Nov 03, 2010 4:37 am

Well then, the engine would have to stick out the top of the hatch as in Paul Kanes Hot Rod.
Is that a cool looking hatch or what?

DaveLott · **Posted:** Wed Nov 03, 2010 4:39 am

Now that is a thought.

Love that hatch he built.

bigblock · **Posted:** Wed Nov 03, 2010 1:29 pm

Thank you for your informative replies. Wow 15"... That all but kills those plans! Oh well... my love for the design may have me building her "the right way" before long anyway. We'll see how much the Malahini teaches me. What a great bunch of people here. Thank you for helping get a lot of beautiful creations "off the ground"!! Without your help, many may have stalled quite early on. I can't believe what building a 32" Malahini is teaching me! If I can offer any advice, it would be for anybody who is reluctant to start a project like this thinking they “don’t have what it takes” … Start off small!! Buy the plans and patterns and have a go at it. Build a model to the size of your liking. I was even able to buy an outboard for my model to make a beautiful R/C Malahini to show off and enjoy! It’s a big help to see her in “3D”. Thanks again guys.

Norm II

Iggy · **Posted:** Wed Nov 03, 2010 2:33 pm

My first boat was actually a Dee-Vee inboard R/C unit. I still have it.. needs some sanding and a new coat of paint then I my son and daughter can try it out. I started when I was 14.. finished at 18 because I ran out of $$$ for the motor/parts. It was the same concept.. frames.. chine.. plywood.. and had the tendancy to 'submarine' itself partially if I turned it too hard and hit the gas. Fun project.

My Malahini is the full sized version right now.. a bit more than halfway done (I hope).

From my understanding.. the inboard engine + components.. are then not generally less expensive than an outboard engine + components? At least in terms of 'new'... I've seen outboard listing in the $10k range.. whereas inboard engines don't seem that high. What is it that makes up the extra costs... shaft.. rudder.. seem pretty straighforward to me.

I always assumed the extra costs for the inboard models like Riviera was in the cold-moulded hull design & associated lumber costs for the added length/battens... not the engine in particular.

bigblock · **Posted:** Wed Nov 03, 2010 4:19 pm

Hey there Iggy... Very familiar with your build! I'm thinking Engine, rudder, shaft, logs, velvet drive, struts, props, mounting brackets... ugh. It just seems like an awful lot (hope I'm wrong). Seems so simple to "just clamp on an outboard". That's a lot of the reason I went with Mahalini first. I'm familiar with (and have a few) outboards. But OH, for that V8 sound and of coarse the performance that goes with it!! Thanks for the reply.

Norm II

Glen-L.com

Riviera... sterndrive I/O possible??

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