Custom Work 2007
Photo 1: Courtesy of Bev McMullen - Photo 2: Courtesy of Janet & Stan Lindeblom
Over the course of the past couple of summers the idea kept re-surfacing of building an efficient displacement hulled boat. This summer it was suggested I should consider building a reproduction of a “Dispro”. It turns out that the “Dispro” boat with its ingenious retractable propeller, efficient shape and graceful lines were an ideal candidate for such a hull project.
With the help from an acquaintance well versed in Dispro history I was able to acquire original factory plans for the Waterford model. My acquaintance lamented that these lovely old craft were becoming harder and harder to find. The reason being after years of Dispro enthusiasts searching old boat houses and barns there are few of the originals left. There is however some of the original hardware, engines, and machinery that have outlasted the hulls, still available.
To this original machinery I intend to fasten an electric drive motor as I feel this would be a perfect application for these times and this vessel. Especially in the current climate of environmental concerns and outrageous fuel prices, I believe, the electric powered Dispro with all its positive attributes is an excellent vessel to begin to address these weighty issues. What’s more is the pleasure gained by cruising at a quiet, smooth and inviting pace.
(An original motor of the Dispro era or a modern 4 stroke are also alternatives available to customers.)
Though built with an eye on authenticity my Dispro’s biggest difference will be in the planking. I have adopted in my building a technique called epoxy lapstrake. Lapstrake planking is how the original Dispros were built. It is a time honoured system that dates back to the Vikings and produces strong, durable and light boats. My technique instead of using mechanical fastenings like the Vikings and the Dispro builders to fasten primarily softwood planks instead uses epoxy to fasten marine plywood planks. My method produces a stronger, more durable, longer lasting and completely leak proof vessel.
My philosophy of the build is Past meets Present with an eye to the Future.
Please follow the progress of this fine boat below.
Performance, Results & Specifications
With several runs in her wake it has become evident that her performance far exceeds my expectation.
Twice we have made runs of 41/2 hours using approximately 1/2 our useable reserves. This with Karen and I on board cruising at 5 knots (5.5 mph). I have substantiated this with a volt meter at home not believing my onboard gauge! It seems that the Electric Dispro can outpace the most enthusiastic boaters in a day.
The power is supplied via a 4KW 48Volt Brushless Motor. Energised by four 12 volt deep cycle sealed gel marine batteries.
Mark.
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The molds are all ready to be situated on the strongback & the laminated stem sits on its mold awaiting a final dressing before being positioned.
Here is the stem is fastened with a scarf joint to the keelson. The stem knee is epoxied in the same operation.
With the backbone attached the bevelling begins. The keelson and stems are shaped into a rolling bevel to accept the garboard plank.
Here the garboards have been fixed and epoxied. It was no small feat with the twist it demands in the aft end. The starboard side has been bevelled with the gains cut ready for the second plank.
3rd ,4th & then 5th planks.
6th, 7th & then 8th planks
Sheerstrake being glued up after final fitting
With the final plank on the outer stems and keel are shaped & fastened
Boat off the molds! Now for the fitting out
The inwale is fitted prior to the breasthooks
Here the splashrail progresses. I have alternated laminations of Red Cedar and Ash.
Here the seats start to take shape. The hole is cut for the device.
The electric drive kit arrives, but there is plenty of work before I am ready to install it.
Getting the device ready for installation.
The Reproduction Dispro is a boat being built on "spec" at present.
Having delivered The Mallard to Ohio, (my first International order) I am back to work on the Dispro on my return and more photographs will follow shortly.
I must thank the wonderful photographer Tim Du Vernet for his write up on my boats in his article in the Muskoka Sun this week.
Here the seating is in, ready to be varnished.
Here you can see the housing and engine in situ. You can also see the dust from the workshop in the photo!
Here she is a Rosseau Market, the next photographs will be in the water.
The Results & The Specifications
I recently went on the 31st Dispro Regatta and to see some pictures click HERE
To see the recent article in The Muskokan Newspaper go to www.muskokan.com/article/145810
For more information on this contact me.