I am in purchase inspection of a Lancer 42 sloop, engine Perkins 85 hp. Another same model would be far away and therefore about $25,000 more expensive to get with the biggest engine of 220hp. I am aware of hull speed formula, but these boats were build with planning hull and can speed up to 12 knots, I guess. Now, how could I change the power engine, do I need another prop and shaft, to become the most powerful and faster boat under power? If change, what are such costs and makes it sense, if the goal is to have just in case a fast boat? Thanks for your opinion, have a great day, Ute
Hi Ute: There is no easy answer to your question as it depends upon how the boat you have is built. For example, the bigger engine will require different engine beds, a larger exhaust line, bigger prop shaft and prop, heavier support on the prop shaft, different prop shaft bearings. The engine will be much larger, and the layout in the engine room may have to be changed. If all these things were to occur, it would cost you a lot more than the simple cost of buying a new engine, and the boat with the 220HP engine at $25K more would be a bargain. However, it is possible that the boat with the 85HP Perkins was built with engine beds large enough to accommodate the bigger engine, and than the rest of the running gear was built for the 220HP engine and just a smaller diesel was installed. In which case it would be simple to change. If you want a larger engine, I would get a firm quotation from a boat yard for doing an installation – and then you will know for sure. Good Luck – Steve
Posted by Steve Dashew (November 30, 1999)
