The purpose of the XL version is to provide builders, who require a greater carrying
capacity than the standard Toter offers (250 pounds), an opportunity to enjoy the
building and boating experience that Toter exhibits. The XL retains the same look
and rugged construction methods employed by Toter,
but will not fit in the trunk of a car.
A pick-up truck or SUV will be necessary to transport
it to the water, but, no trailer required! Both versions are included in the same set of plans.
Toter XL specifications:
OAL: 128 inches
Max Width: 36 inches
Height: 14-1/2 inches
(assembled)
Height: 22 inches
max (nested for travel)
50" long x 38" wide
max (nested for travel)
Material cost to
build hull: less than $200
Draw: 4", with
average weight operator
Total Capacity: 325 lbs, Max
If you are interested, the Toter XXL size, is a slightly wider version
that can accommodate 2 people side-by-side, with room for gear. The XXL specifications are also included in the standard plans. The XXL capacity is 375 lbs.
I have designed and built
a number of small (8 to 10 feet in length) electric powered
boats, each different, and better than the last. Toter
is intended for those who go it alone, or with a child,
and do not want to trailer anything. Therefore, it is
made in 3 sections, each nesting in a larger section,
and then placed in the trunk of an average size car for
transport.
The following layout drawing
should give you a good idea of the concept. The boat is
now complete and awaiting it's maiden voyage in a nearby
lake. Past designs, similar in concept, have worked very
well, and I have sold them to interested individuals.
I am pleased that plans for Toter are available at Duckworks.
Toter is basically made
from 2 sheets of 1/4" plywood. The completed hull
can be built for under $200. The controls add an additional
$50 or so, and then the Motor, Battery and Charger would
be additional.
Some features:
Does not require
a trailer!
Fits in most midsize
trunks, and all SUV's and pickup's
Lightweight, yet
durable, Easily handled by one person
Easily fabricated
with only hand tools and a jig saw.
3 individual compartments
for safety
Plenty of storage
space for fishing gear, etc.
Bimini top (optional)
The plans themselves are
in PDF format for downloading or for a bit more in printed
form. The basic boat plans are 25 pages of detailed instructions
and diagrams. The plans for electric power are 10 pages
and they include modifications to the MinnKota motor and
a wiring schematic.
My motto is to keep it
simple. Past designs had electric steering and solar panels,
but all this added to the weight. This boat weighs a total
of 75 pounds, without the battery, but including the motor
(a 40 pound thrust modified MinnKota).
Just for your information, I am a retired
Engineer who designs things for his own pleasure. Looks
like it might be pleasurable to others as well. I will
give my home phone number and e-mail to all who purchase
the plans, and welcome questions and comments. Also there
is a Toter
builders group where we will discuss this
design - it is open to anyone who is interested.
