Sessional_Paper_1929 — Page 40

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The only procedure that I could recommend would be the selling of the "Kausing" complete as she stands at present and the building of a new tug with twin screws.

25th March, 1929.

G. F. HOLE, Harbour Master.

MEMORANDUM BY THE GOVERNMENT MARINE SURVEYOR.

Hon. Harbour Master,

With reference to your minute of the 7th inst.:

(1) Conversion of "Kau Sing" from steam single screw to motor single screw is possible, but it is considered that the cost of new machinery and the struc- tural alterations necessary, would be prohibitive.

(2) The estimated cost of the change over would be approximately $350,000 to

$400,000 the lowest estimate being as follows:-

Cost of motor main engines (approximately)

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electric auxiliary machinery (approximately) structural alterations involved (approximately)

Total

Less estimated market value of present machinery

The probable structural alterations involved would be as follows

$200,000

90,000

90.000

$380.000

$ 25.000

$355,000

(1) Dispensing with the present double bottom tank beneath the engines. (2) Building new seating for the Diesel engines, and stiffening hull in way thereof. (3) Removing strong beam, and stiffening elsewhere to compensate for same.

(4) Extensive alterations to the present casings.

(5) Removing and rebuilding seatings for all auxiliary machinery.

(6) Fitting new shaft and thrust stools.

The trim and stability of the vessel would not be greatly affected, the Diesel engines weighing approximately 20% less than steam engines, it being possible to ballast the vessel to compensate for this.

Estimates of the total cost of making the conversion have been called for and the cost is estimated at about $370,000.

These are of course only approximate, but serve to indicate the probable expense in- volved should the change over be decided upon.

Hong Kong, 20th March, 1929.

WILLIAM RUSSELL,

Govt. Marine Surveyor.