[PCW] In praise of outboard-powered cats

[Suzanne & Lloyd Kubis]

>From my experience, a difference of a third is a little high for the large new
computer controlled outboards!! I'd put it more in the low 20's!

Out drives I see around here are a big problem!! The boat designers and
builders like them as they are easy to install but the users get to hate them
as most require major expensive annual overhauls ( in warm salt water).Alaska
may not have a barnacle problem but a good deal of the world does and then
one's perspective changes. One has to always consider the impact of the
cruising  area and it's inherent conditions, there is no single solution for
all!!

 Secondly most outdrives still cannot get the prop clear of the water!!

Just my view from boating in tropical waters!!!

Cheers!
Lloyd
  ----- Original Message -----
  From: Robert Deering
  To: 'Power Catamaran List'
  Sent: Tuesday, April 22, 2008 11:25 AM
  Subject: Re: [PCW] In praise of outboard-powered cats


  Lloyd raises several very valid points regarding the benefits of outboards.
  But giving up about a third in fuel economy/range is a very stiff price to
  pay for those benefits.

  In addition, outboards don't provide a reasonable option for adding
  engine-powered accessories such as high-output alternators and hydraulics.

  Some of the issues Lloyd raises with fixed shaft props are addressed by
  running with outdrives.

  As usual, a "series of compromises"...

  Bob Deering
  Juneau, Alaska
  _______________________________________________
  Power-Catamaran Mailing List