[alberg30] Re: Gas to Diesel

[Amy & David Swanson]

From: Amy & David Swanson <zira at mindspring.com>

Thomas -

Go for at least 15 hp; 18 hp is a good and common size.  Anything over 24 hp is
probably a waste.

Good used Atomic 4s go for $1000 to $1500, according to Don Moyer, but I have
seen them for $500.  Someone (Joe Weidman?) had one for sale with exhaust,
panel, etc. for $600 a year or so ago.  I kick my self for not going to look at
it, I would love to have one to rebuild and swap out with my old one.

See Dann Spurr's book for more info.

dls

"Forhan, Thomas" wrote:

> From: "Forhan, Thomas" <Thomas.Forhan at mail.house.gov>
>
>         I know I'm on thin ice here, with  possible responses like "why not
> rebuild the A4, why worry, etc". , so let me explain a little.
>
>         Ten days ago I helped deliver a Valiant 40 offshore from
> Wrightsville Beach NC to Ft. Lauderdale (yes, the North Atlantic in
> January!). The first two days it was pretty calm, and we motored for about
> 48 hours (a front came through and the second two days were surfing south in
> a gale force northwesterly-no engine required!)
>
>         Anyway, the additional range from increased fuel efficiency and a
> properly sized engine does have its appeal- we are vaguely considering
> moving Calliope south to the Bahamas for next winter. So I find myself
> wondering about the specifics of a conversion. So here are some questions:
>
>         The Atomic 4 supposedly puts out 30 hp, but we reach hull speed way
> before the engine is near maximum output. I see some people convert to 30hp
> Yanmars, but isn't this excessive?  I think the old time rule of thumb was
> one hp per 1000 lbs displacement. For years I did extended cruising on a
> 5500 lb 27' Dufour, loaded to about 7000 lbs, and never felt like I needed
> more than the 13hp of the Volvo MD6A. The Valiant, loaded to about 33000 lbs
> had 43hp, the owner reports it is always adequate. What hp is really
> required to move an A30?
>
>         I understand the early boats (Calliope is #287) are easier to
> convert because there is no liner to modify, and I'd need another fuel tank,
> but what else needs to be changed. Can you use the existing shaft? Certainly
> the prop has to change...
>
>         I hear there is a market for good running A4s -which mine is. Anyone
> know what they go for?
>
>         Thanks
>
>         Tom F.
>
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