The new engine cavity
Gemini
Ross & Wei
Sun 20 Sep 2009 02:21
In addition to replacing the engine and the galley sink above we reconditioned the genset, installed dual racor fuel filters with gauges and electric boost pump, remote oil filters, all new wiring and plumbing, engine mounts, coupling, fresh water pump and deck wash pump. Almost every single component was replaced. Given a modern cruising yachts dependence on the motor we felt it was a worthwhile investment.
The previous motor was only 50hp but the new 75hp was based on the same block and theoretically the same size. In reality changes to the gearbox and oil cooler made it a less straightforward change over. The old engine had always been heavily overproped which hastened it's demise and we hoped that the old prop would not need to be changed. However we were to be disappointed and ordered a new 22 inch Autoprop. Performance of the new engine / prop is fantastic. Top speed only went up a little over one knot but cruising speed in flat water is now nearly 7.5 knots and stopping power in tight quarters is awesome.