Saturday, December 16, 2017

New Hydro Type Announced

Reprinted from The Seattle Times, November 11, 1969

Dave Heerensperger, chain-store operator, announced yesterday he has commissioned construction of a low-profile, rear-engine hydroplane to operate in the unlimited racing class in 1970.

The hydroplane will be powered by twin Chrysler hemi engines. The boat will retain the name "Pride of Pay 'n Pak."

The craft, described as being the first unlimited built along low-profile lines with auto engines in the rear, by Heerensperger, is to be completed in April and testing is to begin at Lake Elsinore, Calif. Final tests will be conducted on Lake Washington.

The new Pride of Pay 'n Pak, replacing the disappointing outrigger model, will be 28½ feet long, with a so-called pickle-fork bow with the center section cut out for safety. It will be 12 feet 8 inches wide and weight about 5,500 pounds.

The engines are designed to deliver about 1,100 horsepower.