Hi John,
As the other Vega sailors suggested, the decision is yours, but, here's my experience to add small bits for your decision.
I left Holland coast last May and have now reached the Aegean part of Greece. Have done 3'550 NM, about 1'300 motoring with the old MD7Awhich runs smoothly. before leaving I replaced the injectors, cleaned valves and head from scale, replaced all pipes and filters. The engine keeps working incredibly well.
Till now have overhauled the water pump and found a loose prop shaft on the prop side, possibly due to worn rear bearing. I have already motored for about 70 hours with the worn bearing hoping to reach my home destination for the replacement.
From what I read about your adventure you managed to fix almost everything in your engine.
From Portugal to the Canaries the winds are pretty steady and regular, no need of much use of the engine.
In case of problems you can sail close to a harbour and ask for a towing...
In the worst case scenario, as Steve wrote, you may get the Beta in the Canaries, and fix it while enjoying these beautiful islands...
So, after a short engine trial, check the wind forecast and set sailsfor the Canaries!!
Fair winds and keep us updated!
marco baldan
Albin Vega 3339 Spray
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]
As the other Vega sailors suggested, the decision is yours, but, here's my experience to add small bits for your decision.
I left Holland coast last May and have now reached the Aegean part of Greece. Have done 3'550 NM, about 1'300 motoring with the old MD7Awhich runs smoothly. before leaving I replaced the injectors, cleaned valves and head from scale, replaced all pipes and filters. The engine keeps working incredibly well.
Till now have overhauled the water pump and found a loose prop shaft on the prop side, possibly due to worn rear bearing. I have already motored for about 70 hours with the worn bearing hoping to reach my home destination for the replacement.
From what I read about your adventure you managed to fix almost everything in your engine.
From Portugal to the Canaries the winds are pretty steady and regular, no need of much use of the engine.
In case of problems you can sail close to a harbour and ask for a towing...
In the worst case scenario, as Steve wrote, you may get the Beta in the Canaries, and fix it while enjoying these beautiful islands...
So, after a short engine trial, check the wind forecast and set sailsfor the Canaries!!
Fair winds and keep us updated!
marco baldan
Albin Vega 3339 Spray
[Non-text portions of this message have been removed]