16 vs 20 hp?

[pwhitney100]

I am planning to replace an old md6 with either a Beta 16 or 20. I understand that they both
fit. Is there a benefit to the 20 or does the 16 reach max hull speed? Does anyone know if
there is any other potential issue with the 20?

 

[pwhitney100]

I am planning to replace an old md6 with either a Beta 16 or 20. I understand that they both
fit. Is there a benefit to the 20 or does the 16 reach max hull speed? Does anyone know if
there is any other potential issue with the 20?

 

[stevebirch2002]

Hi

The Beta 20 is a 3 cylinder version of the BZ482 (13.5hp). It is 6 inches longer but fits fine on the Series II and III Vegas. The preferred Beta is the BZ482 (13.5hp) which will easily get to hull speed. There have been over 100 Beta BZ482s fitted to Vegas in the last 10 years. Where are you located?

Cheers

Steve Birch (steve@...)

 

[pwhitney100]

Thanks Steve;

The boat (2425) is in Lund, north of Vancouver BC. I am in Chicago
and will have a boat mechanic in Lund do the work. Is the BZ482
preferred because the 3 cylidner is just not needed?

 

[pwhitney100]

I should add the most of our sailing with this boat is in Desolation Sound and north of there where the currents are very strong.

 

[emmajen5]

Just to add my two bits to this, I installed a 13.5 Beta from Steve in
Raven last year and it has been more than adequate with lots of
reserve power. It's a great motor. I'm located in Nanaimo and do a
lot of my sailing in the same waters as you. Interestingly, my hull
number is just two off yours: 2427.

Garry
"Raven" V2427

 

[pjacobs55]

If I may jump in here ... I sail that area too, with a Yanmar 2
cylinder 13 hp. I find I've always had more than enough power for the
currents of the inside passage. That said, there are still currents
in the area that'll overwhelm any displacement hull, regardless of
horsepower.

Peter
#1331 'Sin Tacha'

 

[stevebirch2002]

hI

I personally reckon the 13.5hp is more than adequate for the Vega as many will, and have, testify.

Cheers

Steve B

 

[nowellchandler]

Steve-

You mention this for the series II and III. Excuse my ignorance, but
these won't fit the series I? What version of Beta will fit, and do
you recommend (if even a beta?)

Thanks

Nowell
s/v Aquila
#176

 

[stevebirch2002]

Hi Nowell

The Beta 13.5, 16 and 20 will all fit every vega. Just easier to fit in the Series II & III. Many Series I have the Beta 14 (BZ482) installed. I have install notes, photos etc if that will help?

Cheers

Steve B