Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

[ske11y]

Whats the pros and cons to both. I have a 79 Bertram 28. Ive got some diesels that i planned on dropping in and know all that is involved in it, including raising the floor a couple inches to make them fit. But just started thinking about converting to outboard. Really didnt like the idea at first but would like to hear the pros and cons. Also what could i look to spend on the outboard conversion rack alone?
Thanks in Advance

 

[shrew]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

I wouldn't put outboards on a Bertram. Purely out of respect for the boat. Besides, I think it would look like like a tacky modification on that particular boat.

 

[Fordiesel69]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

Diesel is safer anyways and should be required for all boats built currently. Diesel does not EXPLODE like gas does. That right there would be reason enough. Ok maybe not, but the shear sound of a diesel would be reason enough for me.

 

[ske11y]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

Yea, i agree, ive already got the diesels, just trying to get some info on it because of the work ahead that i do have to get it on the water and a few people have brought it up to me. I was completely against the idea at first because of how tacky the outboard conversions look but figured might as well hear what people have to say.

 

[ske11y]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

Fordiesel, do you know anything about 6.9 internationals? good? bad ? alright?

 

[smokeonthewater]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

the international idi's 6.9 and 7.3 are not the most powerful ever but are decent and very reliable... no electronics to fail either

 

[mr 88]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

I have a 7.3 non turbo which was a power plant for many school buses.The bus/truck mechanics that I talk to say they are good for 350,000 before thinikng of a rebuild.Mine is in a 93 chassis and runs like a swiss watch,,160,000 miles. I also agree that the outboards would be equal to a facial plastic surgery gone bad on that classic" Baby Bertram" war wagon

 

[Solittle]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

There are a number of threads on this kind of conversion. Generally those who have tried it are not satisfied. A boat is designed for a certain power package. You can change some things but this kind of conversion is rather drastic and changes the overall balance, location of the center of thrust and handling.

All that plus you gots yourself a Bertram. You wouldn't put a Briggs & Stratton in a Rolls?

 

[Fordiesel69]

Re: Inboard Diesels vs Outboard conversion on Bertram 28

Fordiesel, do you know anything about 6.9 internationals? good? bad ? alright?

6.9 & 7.3 engines are good in general, but really need turbos to run strong. The two major problems are head gaskets on 6.9L needing done at 100k, but head studs will solve reoccuring problems, and the the 7.3L the umbrella ex valve seals cause the guides to gall early on (150k or so). 7.3L requires a coolant additve to prevent cylinder liner pitting.

Overall I like the engines and own a 6.9L w/ banks wastegated turbo still to this day, just to lazy to finish the restoration on the truck.

Diesel boats in my opinion are awsome.