AMPHIBICAR.COM

See what happens when you put a Volkswagen Beetle Chassis into a 15 Starcraft fiberglass boat!

The Amphibicar is a homebuilt project involving the use of West System Epoxy products to form the inner fenders and protect the

metal parts from corrosion.   The rear axle tubes are adapted by use of a heavy rubber gusset which allows the suspension to work

yet seal the water from the inside of the boat.  The front axle torsion tubes are sealed inside the boat while the swing arms and shocks are allowed to move as usual.  The steering is controled by use of a VW  Rabbit rack and pinion and relies on the rubber dust boots to seal the water out.  The transmission and front and rear torsion tubes are pressurized to 5 PSI when "Swimming" to keep water from penetrating. 

The car is powered by a stock 1966 1300 air cooled engine and the boat is powered using two MinKota electric trolling outboards, one mounted to each side.  These are lowered using a cable on a winch into the water after the proper depth is achieved.  The two motors, mounted as they are, allow control of direction and allow for spinning the boat in place if necessary. 

During the sea trials, in Jan of 2001, the boat used temperarily mounted outboards.  The car was able to enter and exit the water frontwards with ease because of the hard bottom. If conditions differ, it is expected to have to back the car out of the water.

Click Pictures to enlarge in new window.

The Amphibicar enters harbor for first trial!

She Floats right on the water line.

Back it in with a passenger.

Starcraft boat ready for VW Chassis

Lowering chassis into the boat.

Showing rear axle gussets

Starboard side outboard electric motor

Lowered on cable.

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