This was done a few times as an experiment by some builders and also
by a few owners.
It did not work out for several reasons: the well is open into the
lazarette; prop wash builds up in the well and can flood the boat.
There is also the question of a following sea, for the same reasons.
The well was designed for the 4 hp Mariner, which is now the 3.3.
(They changed the ratings in the 1980's.) You will not be able to
increase the motor size and will still have the prop wash problem
with the 3.3 hp motor. The other major problem is the exhaust. The
well acts as a smoke stack, creating a pain-in-the-ass type of
problem. Having the motor in the well is a real drag; I do not think
it lifts out easily.
Those are the highlights that I got. You might want to think about
glassing the well over and mounting the standard outboard brackets.
That would be a much better solution.
MJM
I agree with you; these are issues we are looking at. I have an
expert helping me with the boat.
It is my belief that it was built that way originally. (If anyone
else has seen this on a Rhodes 22, please respond) The boat was
built before GB took over construction.
There is a large hatch that can be opened for ventilation and the
throttle is on the handle. We are going to be putting in some kind
of vents as well. I have taken some pictures and will be publishing
them soon.
