It is strange how uses change over the years. I note your remarks with 
respect to horse power. Back in the 30's because engines were not that 
efficent, many boats specified a weight rather than H.P.  It was not uncommon 
for a beast of an engine to only produce 10 to 20 H.P. In the 60's a friend 
here obtained plans for a 18 foot cuddy cabin boat from "Mechanix 
Illustrated". The plans were of a wooden boat published in the magazine in 
the early/mid 30's. Just the type for a home builder to complete in his 
garage with the usual hand tools that the average craftsman owned. The boat 
was built with care and when finished was jewell.
Then came the final step, power! The specs called for a engine of x pounds. I 
can't recall the exact amount but the weight now matched a 105 H.P. outboard. 
Such was installed and the boat was launched. Preliminary sea trial went 
fine, the boat moved quickly and efficently and was easly controlled. Then 
came a full power test, and disaster! Under full power the transom caved in 
and it was with great effort and luck that the boat was saved.
Later, in talking to experinced builder from that era it was found that the 
engine weight specified, at the very maximum would have been 35 H.P. Although 
the transom was built to support the weight it was not stressed to take the 
thrust from increased horse power.
I am happy to say that with additionl advise, the transom was rebuilt, 
properly stressed to handle the additional power. The last time I saw the 
boat it was still catchin' fish!
It does show that one must be very carefull in making sure that specs do 
match when looking from one period to another. With the very rapid changes in 
technology this period may be even shorter today than the situation outlined 
above.
Safe boating!
Chimo, Bill
--- timEd-B10
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