How cool would it be to have a motorized river / lake tube? We thought so too, and this video is a step-by-step process on how we did it.
This project is designed to be easily replicated with basic tools, mainly a drill, bandsaw, and soldering iron. Components are hobby grade, readily available on amazon / Home Depot with a total build cost around 65$ (not including batteries).
Battery power is supplied by a 20v power tool battery. This one uses a Bauer battery from harbor freight, but Milwaukee, Dewalt, and Hercules can all be adapted. The motor is a 200w outrunner water-proof thruster motor. Controlling the motor is a small 30a ESC with a built in rheostat, which works well as cruise control.
Parts:
Thruster motor - https://amzn.to/3PUw09i
Speed controller - https://amzn.to/3NPau37
Bullet connectors - https://amzn.to/3PWbe9j
Battery holder
-Milwaukee - https://amzn.to/3Oe9U0r
-Dewalt / bauer / Hurcules - https://amzn.to/3pLOgXM
Epoxy - https://amzn.to/3JWsUxZ
ABS plastic - https://amzn.to/3OdCUW0
Plywood ¾” thick
PVC 1”
- 1 cap
- 1 plug
- 4 couplers
- 2 90deg elbows
- 24” tube, 8” tube, 3” tube

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