ENGINE NOISE

[Dave Slepoy]

I have a 1991 Catalina 28 and while running the engine the noise level is too high to enjoy the interior of the cabin. I went on a friends 28 (same year) and theirs was real quiet!!!!! Can someone explain the exhaust system to me and offer some ideas to make a quieter boat. We do not smell engine exhaust or any other unusual oders inthe boat while under engine power. The boat has a Universal M3-20 engine. Thanks Dave

 

[Joe Barrett]

Insulation

Get 2 kits of foam engine insulation from West or Defender and install them or have them installed. It's about a 3 hour job and will cut engine noise by 50%. I didn't do it on my last boat but did install on my new boat and my wife loves it!

 

[Kathleen]

Thanks, Joe

We just purchased a 1991 Catalina 28, from a sailor in Naples, and were looking for ideas to quiet the engine down. We will try this!

 

[Grant]

Engine Noise Insulation

I used the high density foam from West Marine with self adhesive backing and then some aluminum foil duct tape (not gray, aluminum) I have a 2001 C320 that was noisy and now it must have cut the engine noise by 50%. I do not know why Frank and the Catalina crew don't just add this at the factory. It makes for a much nicer environement for friends, family and the music while under power. Another trick is to close the main companionway hatch.

 

[Grant]

Engine Noise Insulation

I used the high density foam from West Marine with self adhesive backing and then some aluminum foil duct tape (not gray, aluminum) I have a 2001 C320 that was noisy and now it must have cut the engine noise by 50%. I do not know why Frank and the Catalina crew don't just add this at the factory. It makes for a much nicer environement for friends, family and the music while under power. Another trick is to close the main companionway hatch.

 

[Ron]

1 inch or half-inch

GrantWhich thickness of the foam insulation did you use? I believe that it comes in both 1" & 1/2".Any problems with clearances from engine parts? With fitting it around curved surfaces, such as the part in the aft cabin that you lift to get at the dipstick/thru-hull, etc?--RonC320 #831

 

[Ron]

1 inch or half-inch

GrantWhich thickness of the foam insulation did you use? I believe that it comes in both 1" & 1/2".Any problems with clearances from engine parts? With fitting it around curved surfaces, such as the part in the aft cabin that you lift to get at the dipstick/thru-hull, etc?--RonC320 #831