Rightio, are we all sitting comfortabley?.........Then let's begin. (Ta BBC
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The Rowe Hillmaster is a cross between a jetski and row boat. It was designed specifically for use in the Irish Sea, which you most likely know is the is only saltwater body in the world that runs downhill, (the easternside being 957 metres higher than the west, due to Atlantic currents) which is why it is so popular with waterskiers.
As there are no chairlifts to the right of Ireland the the skiing enthusiasts took to the new machine with relish, (usually Branston Pickle) fondly calling it the "Hilly". They (the Hillies) were left to drift to the bottom of the slope where the owner would retrieve them, after enjoying the slalom course down on skis, utilizing the machine to regain the summit. This allowed many more runs than was previously possible, due to the slowness of swimming uphill whilst wearing skis.
The first model was powered by semi-reconditioned, ex-Honda Step Thru, 50cc engines, complete with centrifical clutch and semi-auto three speed gearbox. This model is easily identified by the attractive battleship gray thay were all painted.
The second incarnation, unofficially refered to as the Mk III, was fitted with a later model 90cc powerplant, also of Honda manufacture, but retrofitted with Bosch J-tronic fuel injection and compound turbocharging. These engines proved unreliable in service, mainly due to the cost-cutting practice of effecting no refurbishment to the very used engines prior to modification. Oddly enough, the Mk III was embellished with an extremely expensive metallic, pearl paint of the same hue as the pioneer model.
Due to the difficulty and expense of annual spark-plug replacement for the Honda engines, large percentages of both models have been repowered, V8 Ford Boss being bar far the most popular conversion, but big block Chevrolet is also common. For the operator requiring higher than usual performance, derated Leyland diesel 400 and 401 was utilized.
Accurate production figures are not available, as in 1994 the Company book-keeper, Al Fitzcaponne, scarpered with the petty cash tin, destroying all incriminating evidence and Company records. Fitzcaponne was not missed until late 1996, when milk needed to be purchased. Fitzcaponne's actions eventually caused the demise of the tightly run firm.
According to the recollections of Mrs Cathy McBlarney, Production sub-Engineer and Tea Lady (1953-1996), three (3) 50cc vessels were produced, two being prototypes. The first prototype was lost at sea after being abandoned on its maiden voyage, whilst being boarded by escaping, non-venomous St. Pat asps.
Mrs McBlarney only recalls one Mk III being completed, but concedes that a second may have been produced surreptitiously, the day she returned late from lunch, as she lost her purse in Calhame St. that day.
I believe there was a lesser known company, who also used the Rowe Hillmaster name; however I know bugger all about them or it.
I hope this fact sheet is of assistance to you.
,just the visual.Do not say unfortunately,most people deny that they have got any left,think it is uncool.
Originally Posted by Grockle
loosing it due to my iffynet dropping out each time I tried to post.
How I lived this long without the information that you have just given us,is a mystery to me.
So I'll stay here playing God for a bit longer.
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