I have a 1990 C 42 3 Cabin. I have three different heating systems in the boat. The first was a forced air diesel system that I mounted in the port aft locker and then ducted to the main cabin and the forward head. It was too small of a system for the boat size and the duct runs were too long. But output was 12,000, but the unit is a pain to maintain. The brand I used was an Ardic 41D. Next I installed a Force 10 slim line propane heater on the short wall between the aft head and the galley. I removed the stawrboard dorade and replaced it with a 4" stainless stack. I then put 8" tile behind the unite and a fan near the ceiling to force the hot air down. It works very well to take the chill off in the morning and is clean burning. The btu output is adjustible from 4,000 to 12,000 btu You could also mount a diesel Dickenson heater in the same area. Problem with the propane is that the boat does not have a very large propane locker. That is another topic. The last system is a red dot heater that I mounted in the space under the galley stove. I took out the teak box and the heater was a perfect fit. It has heater hose to the engine and will bring the cabin up to 80+ degrees when under motor. The fan is very noisey, but I understand that West Marine carries a new liine of heaters with a 40,000 btu rating and multi spead fans. If you need more information, you can send me an e-mail at camelot@jps.net Good luck.
