test tank for timing and sychronizing

[monk-monk]

any suggestions for a cheapo' test tank (with motor on boat)? will a big Rubbermaid tub or trash can work...safely!? open for suggestions...thanks!

 

[Chris1956]

Re: test tank for timing and sychronizing

Monk-Monk, You may use a trashcan or other container, to set idle pickup timing and check things at idle. Any greater speed (with a prop installed), and the can will empty or break. If you want to run a motor at high speed in a test tank, you need to have a large tank, with a close fiting cover (around the midsection) to keep the water in. These would be made of metal or masonry. Normally you would use a test prop as well. These give load but minimum thrust.

 

[dajohnson53]

Re: test tank for timing and sychronizing

As Chris1956 said a number of containers will do depending on the size of your engine and how fast you want to run it. I just use a large storage tub or a garbage can for my kickers.

I read about a neat set up but haven't tried it:

Take a 55 gallon drum: plastic or metal with both ends in place. The drum will probably have a removable plug or bung on one of the ends - probably the top if it's standing upright.

Place drum horizontally with the bung positioned so it can drain the drum if it's full of water.

Cut a hole in the upper side of the drum towards one end so that the lower unit of your engine can fit in it - so the thrust would be toward the far end of the drum. (remember the drum is horizontal)

Fill with water. Depending on the engine size, there's plenty of room for the engine's thrust in gear, and it's fairly enclosed so that a minimum of water splashes out. You could run a hose into it to replace splash. The bung, located towards the bottom, can be removed for easy drainage.

 

[mmf]

Re: test tank for timing and sychronizing

I have seen several marine dealerships that used old fuel oil tanks for a test tank. They hold alot of water and are wide and long when laid down........

 

[azlakes]

Re: test tank for timing and sychronizing

... if your wallet can afford it, get the galvanized water troff tank from HomeDepot. they work great and can get a good rev on. bout $60-70