yanmar

[Andy]

I have just returned from a weekend sailing in a 2-3 metre swell, running an outboard on the transom for a period of time, with my daughter sitting on the bow and the prop not engaging the ocean for a period of time.
While being new to sailing, but with experience in operating diesel motors, a small diesel inboard could be on the shopping list. However I like the outboard and the many advantages including cost, and the disadvantages of an inboard which for me is the smell of diesel which reminds me of work!!
My question is about the weight distribution on a Tophat and what can be done to try and improve the performance of the outboard?
My set up is the same as in the above photo, however I have just purchased a throttle extension arm, so I am seated forward next to the end of the tiller and not at the stern, would this weight distribution make a difference? Andy

[SeaLady]

If I had my choice again I would probably choose a 4 stroke outboard and I have heard that there may be diesel outboards.

I chose my 8HP Mercury 2 stroke because of reliability and weight.

Now I have a method of lifting the outboard in and out of the well without needing muscles the weight of the 4 Stroke 36 kg against my 2 stroke 25 kg would not be as much of an issue.

[Miker]

I have just returned from a weekend sailing in a 2-3 metre swell, running an outboard on the transom for a period of time, with my daughter sitting on the bow and the prop not engaging the ocean for a period of time.
Snip

Andy, all you need to do is keep her off the bow whilst in the swell and it should be fine. You also need to make sure you have sufficient outboard leg in the water. When we got ours, we had to adjust it down a bit further to prevent cavitation in all but the worst of conditions, but she still does if there is too much people weight forward.

Michael

[rob.lovelace]

KLAXTON 9HP OUTBOARD DIESEL IS ABOUT 80KG

http://www.klaxondieseloutboards.com/?cat=4

[SeaLady]

89 kg Ouch.

Would need a team of body builders to lift that

[Andy]

Thanks for the advise and information everyone. I believe the 15 hp Johnson motor has been set at the right height, however the motor is not vertical when the boat is not plaining,but when the boat is plaining and perhaps running at the correct hull speed, the motor is vertical and I think the correct height. I could lower the motor perhaps another 150mm, however the prop will be in the sea, when the motor is lifted and not in use. Andy

[patrol1064]

after weighing up the pros and cons outboard/inboard decided to go with a new beta 14hp.the hose going into the sump was stripped on the yanmar which caused the oil in the bilge.dont know why the gearbox was empty no signs of a leak, just neglect i guess.now comes the fun part installing while on a mooring.thx for all your replies............brian.

[storm petrel]

It looks very neat. If you don't mind me asking, what did you pay for the Beta?

[patrol1064]

beta has a shop at taren point nsw it cost $7500 +$110 to courier to qld.i could have rebuilt the yanmar but just refuse to pay ridiculos prices for parts.this one is fresh water cooled and has a built in sump pump for easy oil change.weighs about 20 kilos more than the yanmar.

[SeaLady]

Being fresh water cooled... I have heard of people using the cooling water .. heated by the engine.. to provide hot water for showers. Could be quite decadent having a hot water shower on board.