Quote:
Originally Posted by Poly
If you wanted a camper van would you buy an ex ambulance?
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Yup, if you're handy with tools.
I think your Atlantic will prove to be a good buy, especially if you're going to use it around the Sound of Sleat and, as someone who has needed a second engine in poor sea conditions, I reckon a small wing engine is close to a waste of time. You'll find that most folk who tell you how good a set up it is have never actually used them in anything other than safe water.
Go for two engines, no doubt about it in my mind. Be aware though that running on one engine will not give you half power because one engine only will be over propped for the boat weight. (If you're not sure what I mean by this, do some searches on ribnet, it's been discussed a number of times.) However, you will be able to keep going, get yourself away from danger and still have proper control of your boat at all times.
As Tim M has said, just be sure to keep your fuel system good and have two batteries and you'll be fine. If you can service your engines yourself the extra cost of ownership will be negligible.
As to how much power you need - that simply depends on how fast you want to travel. Two engines around the 100hp each would make a good rig. 2 x 150hp would work and be quick but more than you would need and the extra weight on the stern will make your boat too heavy at the rear - OK once up and running but a pig at displacement speed in big water. Try leaving Mallaig harbour with a big north wind blowing and you'll know what I mean.
Choosing between two engines of similar power - always go for the one which is the biggest cubic capacity engine, although the rated maximum power is the same the larger engine will have more power at lower revs and it will be much more pleasurable to drive. Also, the boat will be better on one engine because of this.
I've found getting up on the plane with two engines is mostly easier than with one equivalent engine because you'll be running finer pitch props and also have a greater prop area. For a time, I ran three 30hp outboards on a 6.5mt rib, they were replaced by one 150hp engine and the boat was noticeably slower off the mark.
Good luck with it, it'll be good, I'm sure!
Tickler
