two engines or one plus kicker

[TollyWally]

This last bit has turned into a very interesting thread.. I kind of wish it were on it's own. A friend of mine has a gillnetter with a sliding reel. Originally designed to provide more picking space he started using it to adjust trim. The end result, the reel is placed for optimum trim because the picking space is "good enough" regardless of reel position.

On a completely different note.

"Stupidity must be a virtue, whole industries, governments, even economies depend on it...... "

I wish I'd said that!

A lot of the "area M" gillnetters use sliding reels...Him ignoring it's designed purpose is hilarious! I imagine that they mostly all do that.

[arthor]

I seem to have missed the last few responses to this thread which seems to have evolved somewhat.
I have seen Fjord 27s advertised with sterndrive power up to 180hp but I think these are conversions. I have seen marinising kits for 1.9l Peugeot TD rated at 115. The kits include adaptor plates for Volvo 280 legs. A couple of those shouldn't be too heavy with the stern drives. Enough power and, with seperate fuel (and electrics?) aux enginability. I have to admit that this setup seems quite attractive to me actually though I am sure there are bags of reasons why it shouldn't.
My boat is actually a Selco, the building of which was taken on later by Fjord. They had their own 27' which was a bit different.
I have to admit that one of my thoughts when considering shifting the volvo out was the weight distribution. I have also pondered the fact that anything I put in would likely be a deal lighter and would have less of an impact on this issue. I have looked at the Yanmar and Steyr straight 4 common rails (160-180hp ish) which are a bit pricey but if it is the only major expense then I can live with that. Using a four would bring the front end of the engine rearwards leaving a bit more leeway forward for my rejigging.
What we have is big enough if the space is used more efficiently and we like the idea of the heart and soul of this boat living on with us. If I went out and got another boat, I would probably end up with something around the 40' mark and spend far too much. I am hoping that this intended project will partly cure my building/tinkering lust.
Option 1 - The Peugeots on sterndrives
Option 2 - Yanmar/Steyr 4 cyl direct replacement
Option 3 - An outboard set up.

thanks once again for all your help and advice.

If I were you, I would go with the Steyr.

Regards
Richard

We've got a few of those here, Richard. It's a strange little thing, with split block. Have they proven reliable?

Originally Posted by mark775

We've got a few of those here, Richard. It's a strange little thing, with split block. Have they proven reliable?

Yes Mark, very reliable.