Diesel Engine
Overload: Stern
Drives
Hi James,
Excellent article. I am researching putting a 4108 Perkins Diesel in a 1977, 20
foot Double Eagle boat that weighs in around 3500 lbs. The diesel puts out 51
hp. I am hoping to adapt this to a Volvo 280 leg.
If you have any suggestions or comments they would be greatly appreciated.
Again thanks for the article.
Response:
A good solid, under-stressed
engine. 50 HP from 107 cubic inches.
Stern drives are fine but they do have some downsides: 1) many have problems
with corrosion, 2) expensive to ground or if you hit logs or debris in the
water, 3) more service intensive than inboard solutions, and 4) requires a
large transom opening sealed by a large boot (some potential for leaks).
However, that said, they are used successfully in many commercial water taxis
in this area and in BC. In fact, Volvo pretty much owns that market.
Good luck with your project.
-- James
Back to Diesel Engine Overload
Introduction and Follow-up Questions
%20(2).JPG)