Finding an inboard diesel for 27' O'Day

Southcoasting · #1 (**permalink**) 10-31-2011

Hi,
there is an O'Day 27' local to me that has no engine...I'm looking for my first boat and wondering how easy/hard it would be find a used motor around...

Thoughts on this and wether it's worth it?

emoney · #2 (**permalink**) 10-31-2011

Hmmm...depends on how you define "worth it", I suppose. I'm sure each region is different, but around these parts there are engines to be had, but usually on the expensive side. I've found it a better value to go with a new one from say Beta or similar. However, as an aside, have you given any thought to maybe securing a "donor boat". For whatever strange reason, I've found it to be much less expensive to buy an entire boat that needs say spars, or all the sails are bad, or the deck core is rotted, but still has a working inboard diesel. Of course, there's the whole, getting rid of the carcass to deal with, but it's an idea at the very least. Good luck and I hope you find what you're looking for.

Sailoday34 · #3 (**permalink**) 10-31-2011

O'day came with a Universal which is a Kobuta converted to marine use. I have owned 2 O'day's and have had great luck (no problems) with either engine. My current is an 1983O'day 34 with lord knows how many hours but runs great. I have researched in the past if something ever went bad, and I have decided I would go with a Yanmar as the arrangement seems similar and should be doable. As far as the transmission, I would go with what is recommended from the dealer you use. You are "sout coasting" and I do not know if that means Gulf Coast or not. If you are in the Gulf, there are several places but have your wallet ready not matter where you go.