When it comes to electronic diesels whether you like it or not, there is no
alternative since this technology was developed to answer emissions
requirements by the EPA. Frankly I think the EPA has contributed more to
technological advancement in marine propulsion than any entity, since they
have forced an industry resistant to change to advance at a more rapid pace.
This applies to gasoline outboards as well.
Don't forget stern drives do give up some efficiencies because they require a
ninety degree gear inside. In the Manta sail cats I have preferred the use of
sail drives for years, much simpler, no alignment, no stuffing box, less
vibration etc. I think the current crop developed for power boats like the
Volvo IPS and Mercury Zues make a lot of sense, and these systems take care of
the underwater exhaust question as a standard feature, just need to come up
with a way to protect from flotsam and grounding.
Fuel economy matters BIG TIME if you are cruising long distance, if its
weekends probably not.
Trash compactor? If you are long range cruising absolutely a very handy thing
to have.
Controllable pitch props if you are long range cruising make a lot of sense,
you can substantially increase range, for traveling on one engine the ultimate
set up. Yea they are expensive.
When it comes to electronic diesels whether you like it or not, there is no
alternative since this technology was developed to answer emissions
requirements by the EPA. Frankly I think the EPA has contributed more to
technological advancement in marine propulsion than any entity, since they
have forced an industry resistant to change to advance at a more rapid pace.
This applies to gasoline outboards as well.
Don't forget stern drives do give up some efficiencies because they require a
ninety degree gear inside. In the Manta sail cats I have preferred the use of
sail drives for years, much simpler, no alignment, no stuffing box, less
vibration etc. I think the current crop developed for power boats like the
Volvo IPS and Mercury Zues make a lot of sense, and these systems take care of
the underwater exhaust question as a standard feature, just need to come up
with a way to protect from flotsam and grounding.
Fuel economy matters BIG TIME if you are cruising long distance, if its
weekends probably not.
Trash compactor? If you are long range cruising absolutely a very handy thing
to have.
Controllable pitch props if you are long range cruising make a lot of sense,
you can substantially increase range, for traveling on one engine the ultimate
set up. Yea they are expensive.
