Test tank

[skynyrdcat]

For those of us who "tinker" with boats and out boards (and like myself) are not in a position to build a test tank (I'm currently renting a home / land until my dozer and construction work are completed late this fall).
What testing would you consider to be safe with the lower unit submerged in basically a cut off 55 gallon barrel?

Do any of you test / check this way?

How high have you ran a motor (in gear) with one of these set ups?

I'm currently pulling any boats I work on to the closest marina / lake access which takes hours away from my time and I can't charge for fuel and time (since it's my problem, not the customers).
I'd like to find a easier / better way until I have my own place set up (complete with a test tank).

I don't have a large customer base or anything, just work on a few here and there, but the closest Marina / lake access is 12mi.

Any thoughts and or bad experiences testing engines this way (low RPM tests)?

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Test tank

You can do low RPM testing in a barrel for small HP motors only. You will need to fabricate a cover to fit the barrel, with a tight cut-out for the lower unit, to keep the water in. A test prop would be best since it doesn't generate much thrust and still provides a load.

 

[skynyrdcat]

Re: Test tank

I don't suppose there is a universal test prop that you'd reccomend to cover the most applications?