Frank writes: <<During the Camano 31 demo we noticed the engine is running about 1600 RPM at the 8kt "best range" speed. The dealer claims about one gallon per hour at this speed and frankly, this is where the boat will spend the bulk of it's running time. Is running a turbocharged diesel at low RPM in some way "worse" for engine life than running a normally aspirated engine at a lower RPM. Or, do I have it backwards?>> Frank, I suspect that the dealer was being a bit optimistic in stating that the Camano 31 will average "about a gallon" for an 8 kt. cruising speed. To get a Camano up to 8 kts. requires about 33 to 35 hp depending on load. This works out to approximately 2 gallons per hour. Not that it is a deal breaker. Just expect to double your fuel consumption from what the dealer told you. Alternatively, ask him if he will reimburse you for every gallon of fuel you use over his estimate for the duration of your boat ownership and see if he will go for it. It is my understanding that turbo diesels have a narrower "happy" range than conventionally aspirated diesels. The torque peak is higher and sharper. You should choose a prop to get the engine operating near this torque peak or slightly below at your cruising speed. But in real life, unless you plan to cruise for thousands of hours, it probably won't make much difference. Larry Z