I would like to open a discussion for the group to brainstorm a common problem.
In discussions with several members recently, the issue of trailer launching a 2 ton deep draft submersible is weighing a bit on my mind. The image of backing the thing in far enough to "get stuck" and still not float free, or worse...launching the vehicle as well, has real potential.
One member has mentioned to me recently, that as little as 12" decreased draft, would really make a tremendous difference. Saddle tanks alone, may not be enough to do the job.
So...some folks in Hawaii, came up with the LRT barge........
A rather ingenious. but impractical solution for psubbers as it requires diver support, and fully submersible would require increased complexity.
However, it did prompt me to think of these little guys...........
These are available on the used market in various states, but our interest would be the floats, and possibly the deck. But, putting a two ton submersible on this deck would make it unstable, so my thoughts are to...reverse the deck (under slung)... cut flood ports in the bottoms, and attach flotation topside...essentially turning these pontoons into MBT's. Blowing to be accomplished by battery powered centrifugal blowers.
This could be potentially used only for launching and retrieval in the calm waters of the ramp area, then reload it onto the trailer and tow the sub conventionally.
Here are the problems that I can foresee here, and would like discussion on improvements or otherwise unforeseen circumstances.
1) Width limited to 102" for legal towing without permits.
2) Width limit may limit usable space between pontoons in the described configuration.
3) Road towing stability
Sometimes the simplest solutions elude you, so I'd like to see what the group can come up with here.
Joe
