New engine for 1977 Catalina 30

[Bob Middleton]

What is the best make, model and HP diesel engine to replace the original gas engine Universal, Westerbeke or Yanmar? I have seen one repowered with a Yanmar 18, but the engine extended several inches above the fiberglass seat top which looks bad. Is there an engine that fits within the engine compartment confinment? I want to go with an 18 HP diesel or more. Any idea of estimated costs? Is it worth the effort to repower a 1977 that appears to be in good shape if the price is around $10, 000.00? The existing diesel engine in the boat is a single cylinder underpowered diesel that is not working and probably beyond repair. Decision time. I would appreciate any advice. Thanks!

 

[Larry W.]

Engine for C-30

Bob; If it was me, I'd try to find one of the small diesels used in early models, the Universal 5411. I had one myself for five years and loved it. Small enough to fit under the seat and with enough power, even with a folding two-blade prop, to motor effectively. They're raw-water cooled, not a problem on a fresh-water lake and so eliminate the need for the heat exchanger. They were built on Kubota blocks.

 

[Rhet]

If it were me

I have an 88 CAT with an XP-25 diesel engine. It is a good fit for the size

 

[Rob R.]

I agree with Rhet...

Unless you are looking into serious ocean voyaging (you can get to the gulf via Kemah, right?), I would look at repowering with an Atomic 4. You can get one for half of the price you mentioned in your post.A good place to look is www.moyermarine.com - Don Moyer is the most knowledgable guy out there when it comes to this engine - I think he even sells overhauled engines that are even better than the original. You'll get 30 hp, which is more than enough for your boat.Best of Luck, Rob

 

[A. J. Byllott]

Any way you slice it you will be unhappy. There are plenty of boats available that are priced at about $10,000 plus the cost of an installed diesel engine. The price of the engine may seem attractive, but the installation labor charge and the other items that turn out to be necessary could easily surpass $1,000. If the engine cannot be overhauled in place, do yourself a favor and pass on this opportunity.

 

[Thos Kober]

Engines..

Practicle Sailor just rated engines, Perkins, Westerbekes, Universals, Volvos and Yanmars in that order. Perkins being the best but also said that all were actually pretty good engines.My guess is the Universal 18 would be the best fit for the Cat 30. btw, unless you are sailing on fresh water, I would stay away from raw water cooled. The question of what to put in depends on how long you plan on keeping your boat I would think. If it is for a long time it might be worth putting in a new diesel, which may get up to $10,000 after you factor in all the other stuff like new transmission, fuel tank, lines installation ect. When it gets time to sell expect only about half of your investment back. If I thought I was only going to keep it for a few years I would think about keeping the exhisting engine? You may have an old Faryman, and I would think about having that rebuilt for 1/3 the cost or maybe a rebuilt Atomic 4. fair winds /)