Replacement - Heresy?

[boatpoker]

Safer, longer lived and more reliable. I concede defeat.

[djodenda]

Perhaps we can all concede that "boatpoker" is a good login name for a marine surveyor?

David

[Leither]

I came across this post by accident while looking for something else (the thread has been so riveting that I can't remember what it was....). My experience in the UK (and in Europe as a whole) was that diesels are all but universal on sailboats ovee there (outboards being the exception). The reasons for this are as so clearly set out by Boatpoker ie safer, more reliable, more economical in terms of fuel consumption. Let's face it, the initial cost question is really only an issue if replacement is being considered.

However, if I was in a position where I had a gas engine which I knew well and which had always been in the boat, I would sure be tempted to have it overhauled. Somehow, it seems the right thing to do.....

Stuart

[meuritt]

Having just read the current issue of Good Old Boat and the article about the A4, I was very curious to read this thread. Of course, it turned into gas vs diesel. Too bad. I happen to like gas, and wooden boats, but the boat that fit my dreams was glass with a diesel, far too big a boat for a single A4, maybe twins? Oh, don't like twins, sorry, its a motorsailor for me.

Boat Poker, I am with you, having just bought a boat and looking at a couple dozen, probably more in the last two years, the number of boats still afloat that seem like they shouldn't amazes me, from rot to bad engine or shore power installations.

Long live the simplicity of the A4, close up the cabin, and vent before refueling and, of course starting

[patrickrea]

Originally Posted by boatpoker

I've surveyed dozens of boat with A4's and don't understand why they have not all blown up ! Every one I have seen has at least 2 or 3 of the following issues.

1.) Improperly installed engine compartment ventilation systems (per ABYC).
2.) Engine compartment not vapour proof to the accomodation spaces.
3.) Non-ignition proof battery (auto type)chargers in the fuel/engine
compartment.
4.) AC outlets in the fuel/engine compartment.
5.) Ungrounded fuel fill/tank.

Actual selling price of a diesel vs. gas in this category is usually 2-4k more.

Ahhhh ! diesel fumes ....mothers milk

Gee Boatpoker, it sounds like you are describing my boat! Almost exactly what you said when you surveyed it!! You forgot to mention the battery tiedowns, and waited for another post to mention the household ac wiring and ac fuse panel.

[RAGTIMEDON]

yes, I know it's off the subject but I just noticed that Leither has a retired member --they've got a pill for that!

[Leither]

The member may be retired, but it is still more than capable of going into action!

Being a responsible forumite, I will, of course, spare you the details.

Stuart