New Jet Craft Built Locally

Press, Volume C, Issue 29514, 16 May 1961, Page 21

New Jet Craft Built Locally

Tn the development of marine jet units, New Zealand has already earned considerable distinction, and the market for this type of propulsion is rapidly expanding. A new and advanced jet unit, built into a 14ft boat of white pine and mahogany, is now being marketed in Christchurch by Seafox Marine, Ltd. The "Seafox” jet boat has been built with an emphasis on comfort and safety, and even in the event of a capsize would not sink. A wrapround windscreen is reinforced by a chrome on brass surround. The walk-through front

seat is upholstered with rubberised material which acts as a buoyancy cushion, and two chairs can be placed on the flat floor of the aftercockpit. All body castings of the jet are east from aluminium to resist the effects of salt, the propellers and vanes are manganese steel, and all shafts and bolts are of stainless steel. No clutch or reverse gear is necessary, and steering is by means of a pair of shutters pivoted across the jet outlet. Reverse is obtained by closing either shutter full across, so that the water is deflected down and forward. These

movements are controlled from the steering wheel. A tilting boat trailer is also being marketed by the company. It has a winch for raising the boat from the water, and the hull is guided into position on the trailer by rollers.