Rusty Van Ranch

“Creator of all things unnecessary”

Like most people who know him these days, we discovered Rusty Van Ranch via social media. His creation of the Tugski, a children’s plastic tugboat sandbox propelled by a PWC engine, has gone viral, and we knew we had to find out more. —Garrett Cortese

Where did the concept for the Tugski come from?

I saw a video where someone put a trolling motor on one of these sandboxes, and it looked pretty fun. So I challenged my brothers to see who could build the fastest tugboat sandbox. I have the tendency to go a little overboard (no pun intended). They forfeited when they saw me cutting a personal watercraft in half.

What engine did you use?

The drivetrain is out of a 1994 Yamaha VXR WaveRunner. It’s a 650cc two-stroke.

What is the Tugski’s top speed?

The fastest I’ve gone is 23 knots before it starts porpoising, but she definitely has more in her. I plan on designing a trimtab setup for it, and I think I’ll probably be able to almost double that speed.

Who has more fun going out on the Tugski, you or your daughter?

Definitely me. She likes to go for slow cruises on it and jump off. But, naturally, I like to go fast and jump my own wake. She hasn’t quite warmed up to the idea of that yet.

1. You’re considering a new 30-foot bowrider. Your power choices are twin sterndrives, twin outboards or triple outboards. What might you think about while considering your choices? A. Outboards are the rage today, even on larger boats. Go for the eggbeaters.

B. Twin drives create less underwater drag and are less maintenance, than three; twins are likely the best overall choice.

C. Careful study of available boat tests

and fuel consumption is necessary. D. A and B

E. B and C

2. What are some of the careful considerations to keep in mind when choosing a new outboard?

A. It’s likely that the majority of service will have to be performed by the dealer. Make a careful evaluation and look at service reviews; pick a dealer close to where you boat, and make service a priority.

B. Older outboards are typically lighter than newer ones, so added weight on the transom could be a problem for some hulls.

C. What about rigging and steering upgrades? These might be necessary, and will add significantly to the tab. D. None of the above

E. All of the above

While more and more powerful engines are being introduced of late, buying and installing new power requires patience due to the short supply of everything from steel to electronic components. While you wait for yours, let’s bone up on today’s power. (Answers on page 30)

3. If your boat is rated by its capacity plate for 250 hp, and your old engine is a 1983 Johnson 200, should you upgrade and buy a 250—the maximum power possible for your hull?

A. Your old 200 is a two-stroke and rated at the powerhead; at the prop, it’s likely about 185 hp, and it only weighs about 400 pounds. Be careful and inspect the transom and hull for integrity, and consult with your dealer. Modern engines of similar or more rated power might be too much for your hull.

B. No. The capacity plate has nothing to do with max rated power. Go with the engine you want.

C. Get the expert opinion of those on Facebook enthusiast groups, then make your decision.

D. B and C

4. Your sterndrive bit the dust; what are some areas you should check before buying a replacement?

A. If you’re buying aftermarket, will your dealer install and service it if you can’t?

B. What warranty does it come with? C. Does the dealer require your old drive as a “core,” and if so, how much is it worth?

D. Does it have a cool black paint finish?

E. A, B and C

F. All of the above

5. Your dealer is offering a stainless-steel propeller or extended warranty as a bonus with your new engine. Which is the best choice?

A. The stainless prop—it’s worth a few miles per hour, which is a huge bonus.

B. The warranty—you can always buy a stainless prop later.

C. Both are valuable. The best bet is to see if the dealer will provide the warranty and throw in the prop. D. None of the above