Bow thruster tunnels

[Jassira]

I’m planning on installing a bow thruster this winter, Side Power SH160/215 is the front runner at the moment (any comments/experience appreciated) The unit itself seems reasonably priced, but I’m being quoted in the region of £450 for a steel tunnel 1m long 215mm diameter, 6mm wall thickness. It doesn’t have any machined flanges etc, it’s just a bit of steel tube, albeit a big bit of steel tube. I’ve called a few steel stockholders but so far drawn a blank. Maybe £450 is the going rate, but I’d like to get a few other quotes from outside the marine trade, any suggestion for a source.

 

[edmundwigan]

Bowthruster experience

I fitted a Sleipner in a GRP boat 2 years ago and am delighted with it. I find the wireless remote control very useful when singlehanded. I also wired this up to control the windlass. These thrusters do seem much quieter than most which I believe is due to the five bladed props. Anodes seem to last at least two years but obviously steel may be very different.

Sorry but I can't help regarding the price of the tube.

Good luck with your installation.

 

[mack3737]

Speak to a pipework fabricator, we have lots in Aberdeen, you should be able to pick up a meter of 316 stainless pipe, 8" sch 40 ( google pipe schedules) that would give you an od of 219mm and a wall thichness of 8mm.
Suggest payment of a bottle of malt instead of £450!!

 

[rogerthebodger]

I fitted a vetus 180mm dia bow thruster to my steel boat about 4 years a go and looked to buy an off the shelf tube but could not find one. I have whats left over from the one I got from vetus in my shed but I am a long way from you.

Best try all the steel stock holders in your area you may be lucky.