T&T: Bow thruster price

[Mark Richter]

Dave,
List price on the Vetus 7.5 HP 12v thruster is $3899.  This unit's rated 
thrust is 210 lbs, and it can run for 3 minutes maximum, drawing up to 440 
amps.  It should take two men about 1.5 days to install the unit, assuming 
reasonable access to the inside bow area where it will be installed.  The 
tunnel tube has a 7.27" ID, and must be at least 14.5" long, which can limit 
how far forward the tunnel can be installed.  I would recommend the 24 v 
model with batteries located near the unit with a 24v charger, as running 
440 amps at 12v from your engine room to the bow will take some massive 
cable, and the installers will use undersized cable, almost guaranteed.  A 
12v unit is OK if the batteries are located very close, but the 24v thruster 
costs the same.

I prefer the Side-Power thrusters distributed by Imtra Corp.  Their 8HP 
model is available from Defender for $2895 (Lists at $4100).

Does Florida Bow Thrusters have men near Lake Ontario, or do they fly in a 
team for the job?  Doesn't someone in you area do this work?  Lets give them 
list price for the thruster.  Allow about $200 for the tunnel, and $500 for 
cable and wiring.  Labor of 24 manhours at $100 per totals $7000.  Perhaps 
airline tickets and hotel/meal costs run the total up to your quote.

Mark Richter, M.E.
Mark's Mobile Marine, specializing in Electrical system design, 
installation, and repair
Ortona, FL on the Okeechobee Waterway (4 miles west of Glades Boat Storage 
Yard)
863-517-1152



----- Original Message ----- 
From: "David Hart"
>I am thinking of having a bow thruster put on my new to me 44' trawler. I 
>have a price from Florida Bow Thrusters of $10800 for a dual station, using 
>my batteries and charger including parts and installation at my location. 
>The thruster is a Vetus 215 lb thrust 12 volt. Does anyone have any idea if 
>this is a good price and does anyone have any experience with Florida Bow 
>Thrusters?