Tug update

One of our current projects is running all new wiring for the AC electrical system. Wow; drilling
all those holes in the steel frames with a hole saw is a pain in the arm. But its the only way to run all the new plastic conduit. This is the least expensive way to wire this boat with #12 thhn mtw stranded wire The boat was originally equipped with a DC 120 volt system. In 1964 the Navy leased the boat from the Army and made some upgrades including a 30 amp motor-generator
set for a small AC. service. One of the more "interesting" things the Navy did was the installation of a gyro compass. The power supply was as follows 120 v DC. converted to 120 v. AC. via motor generator then converted to 12 v. DC. via a solid state power supply then converted to 400 hertz 120 v. AC. via another motor generator to power the Sperry aircraft gyro which was probably never used because this boat has never left SF bay since it was built and delivered to Rio Vista in 1955. This system would made Rube Goldberg blush! I am going to scrap the gyro in the future and install a GPS. Another current project is the installation of a davit we picked up at an auction. So we can finally have the launch we so covet. To carry more of the material
we need out to the boat. This davit is a super heavy duty model off a Corps of Engineers debris boat. complete with a pneumatic winch this is perfect for us since we already have 3 compressors
and plenty of capacity ( except for when you have reverse the main engine in a hurry, then there is never enough ) . As soon as we get some time around here I will find that article about some secret chemical and biological weapons testing in the Pacific off midway Island. From 1964 to
1971 The army used 6 of these Army LT tugs Converted to research vessels I also have a photo of these boats returning to Reo Vista for layup. Projects Projects Projects In the meantime.

Happy Towing