RE: What you think of my step dads project boat?
If you can, get your step-father in here so we can discuss this boat. We don't want to sound critical but only in his best interest to avoid problems down the road.
First, don't use the plastic prop, it is for show only!
He'll want all of the radio equipment inside of a sealed radio box, not exposed to the elements. One flip (and they will) and the exposed gear will be toast.
The steering linkage need to be strong. If he is going to run a single rod to the engine, it should be 4-40 rod or stronger and should have been on the right side, not the left.
I can't tell what servo that he is using either for steering but you'll need a good, strong one there also, no "Standard" servos as it's going to take a lot to move that weight in the water.
I've been there. I have built two 7.5 OB tunnels and several 3.5 OB tunnels.
He's got a lot of "corrective surgery" to do before it hits the H2O. Sorry, we want to have your experiences to be good ones when it's ready to be tossed into the water.