posted 06-23-2013 01:17 PM ET (US)
Thanks for the advice I got earlier about repowering. We benefited from that advice. Here's the story. About the first of the year, I posted an inquiry regarding repowering.
SEE http://continuouswave.com/ubb/Forum3/HTML/020206.html.
Quick summary. 1985 Outrage 22 cuddy with original engines (twin Yamaha 115s). Question was, what to do regarding engines.
I was leaning towards replacing the twins with new twins. It was pointed out to me that a single might be a better choice. Or alternatively, a single plus a kicker if I want insurance to get home.
That suggestion got me to do somewhat better analysis. I decided to stick with Yamaha (good reputation and I had a relationship with a dealer who seems quite able).
Looking at the Yamaha literature I found that twin modern 115s weighted a lot more than did 115s from 28 years ago. The new ones are also quieter, better gas mileage, and less pollution. However, a 250 and a 9.9 kicker weigh just about the same as the twin 115s. I elected to go with the 250 and the kicker.
Getting the engines installed took some time. Shipping problems, who knows what else. The yard had a hard time installing the kicker so that it would not interfere with the 250 which one or the other was raised and lowered. But, a couple of weeks ago we took delivery of the boat with the new engines.
Bottom line. Happy with the conversion. Quieter, more responsive engine. The starboard 115 was sometimes reluctant to start. It's nice to go out and be confident that the motor will start.
The engine seems big but the boat trims out the same. Steering at low speed is harder---the boat seems to wander a little. Maybe I need more practice. But, having half as much steering force (effectively about 1/2 the "rudder" area) makes a difference also. At speed there is no issue with steering.
I've not really gone to WOT. But, with the old 115s, WOT gave me about 42 mph. With this engine, 5000 RPM gives me 45 mph. I have little desire to go faster---certainly not unless the water is very, very smooth. But, does anyone know what the safe top speed would be?
Anyway, thanks for all the discussion and suggestions. I'm sure that we got a lot from it.
Chuck
PS. Now I have to work on the cosmetics of the boat so that they match the engine/controls! Then, I'll have an almost new boat for somewhat less than the cost of a new boat. But, I should have new boat reliability for the next several years.