Bow Thruster for a Hunter 420

eianm · Aug 3, 2014

captmaddog said:
I'm looking at having a Lewmar 4hp bow thruster installed on my 2003 Hunter 420. Wondering if any other 420's out there have done this; any problems; have to move or modify any tanks and such? The unit is about $1900 plus tax. What were your installation costs etc. thanks

you should google search "yacht thruster and Hunter 42/420"- this should be a lower cost alternative

artboas · Aug 3, 2014

Caution !!

eianm said:
you should google search "yacht thruster and Hunter 42/420"- this should be a lower cost alternative

I had dealings with Yacht Thruster. I would recommend to stay away.
It's not inexpensive to put in a tunnel thruster, but the end result is a known.
No such thing as a free lunch. It's either not free, or it's not lunch.

Patrik · Aug 9, 2014

I have a SidePower SE60 in my 356 and it's excellent! It have saved us several times and made us dock in places and situations never done before without a bowthruster. I would not install something outside the hull risking trouble with lines, shallow water etc.

Brigadoon460 · Oct 20, 2014

I am currently in the process of installing a side power SE100/185T in my H460. I did some extensive research and found the Side-power to be the best product. Some additional things to consider that are often overlooked in the total cost of installation are the additional battery(ies) and charging system. This could range between $500 - $1500.

SEMPERAVANTI41 · Oct 20, 2014

Did Hunter offer a bow thruster in this boat from the factory? If so I would try to get the SOP from Hunter. I just installed a bow thruster in my 41DS and the instructions from Hunter were very helpful. I went with a Lewmar unit as was specified from Hunter. So far it has worked great.

Buck420 · Oct 21, 2014

SEMPERAVANTI41 said:
Did Hunter offer a bow thruster in this boat from the factory? If so I would try to get the SOP from Hunter. I just installed a bow thruster in my 41DS and the instructions from Hunter were very helpful. I went with a Lewmar unit as was specified from Hunter. So far it has worked great.

No, Hunter did not offer a bow thruster for the 420 ( to my knowledge).
I have not installed one, however, it can be done. Another 420 here at Little Creek has one, but I do not know the owner or the details.
It is my understanding that in order to get enough space for the tube, the forward head has to be elevated.
Good luck ...