[PUP] Ok, what is your thoughts about get home engines

[Alan Wagner]

I have a twin now, but selected a single engine for the main propulsion
because of greater fuel efficiency, avoiding twice the maintenance, and a
better protected prop tucked into the keel.  To maximize efficiency I also
specified a variable pitch prop.

I struggled with this "get home" issue for some time.  I was surprised by
the high numbers that said that none was needed given the reliability of
diesels.  I just couldn't see myself running around the middle of the
Atlantic without a back-up, however.  My builder cautioned me that the worse
thing you can do with a diesel engine is just let it sit there and, with the
reliability of diesels, the wing was likely to sit and sit and sit, which
ain't the best thing for it.

Eventually, with Arild Jensen's design help I decided to have a the "wing"
pull double duty.  I will have a 37 hp Kubota and a separate shaft with a
folding prop as the wing power source.  To keep the engine nicely exercised
and maintained it will double as a DC generator by powering a pair of Series
98 Balmar alternators.


o;?
Alan Wagner
Tampa, Florida
"Morning Delight"  1978, 44' Gulfstar MC
Building "Passage of Time" or maybe "Phoenix," who knows!
Kasten designed 53' aluminum passagemaker
http://kastenmarine.com/valdemar52.htm