100 Palmetto Street, Schriever, Louisiana 70395
My good friend and fellow engine collector Robert Mayeux told me
where a marine engine of some sort was in a watery grave,
‘visible only at low water.’
After resleeving, regrinding, repouring and refitting, I was
able to get my prize ticking once again. It has been the star of
several shows. I’ve talked to at least 15 people from across
the coast that describe operating this IHC conversion. I feel that
this is only one of several hundred engines done in this
manner.
One 85-year-old gentleman wrote down the names of 39 boats and
their owners who operated Felequak engines. After hearing my engine
running, he stated with certainty, ‘I’ve not heard that
sound since 1930.’
Several people describe the details of operation such as
adjusting the ignitor trip while under way, turning into the
current to dock, as they used no clutch or reverse. They would use
a check valve at the carburetor and hold the intake valve open to
run slow at the dock, thus giving more head space volume.
Those whom I’ve talked to have fond memories of their long
ago boat rides and view our hobby with much appreciation.
