Using one inboard engine of a twin

[rperla]

I was considering using my port engine only for cruising and saving gas. I am new to twin engines.My starboard engine has been giving some troubles. The boat is an 81 Chris craft, twin 305.<br />Is using one engine a safety hazard, I know there would be some thrust towards starboard, but could steering and trim compensate for this? Any ideas?<br />thanks

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

If you like navigating in circles it would be great.I dont think you can do it if you wanted to.It certainly would be hazardous if you needed to make a quick maneuver to avoid another craft or pier etc.Let us know how it works out for you and make sure your insurance is up to date.Charlie

 

[Capt Ken]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

As long as the starboard engine will run and get you away from and back into the dock, there shouldn't be any problem unless you need to turn to port. It will turn to port but it will take a pretty wide circle. Being its an 81 model, you should have Borg Warner transmissions and you can free wheel them without damage. Now if you have a V drive, you best check the make and if you can free wheel them.

 

[rperla]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Thanks for your replies.

 

[rperla]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Captain Ken<br />Thank you for your information

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Lets concentrate on getting the other engine running right

 

[rperla]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

HI JEFF<br />THATS A GOOD SUGGESTION. I AM TRYING TO LOOK AT ALL MY OPTIONS. WITH THE COST GAS NOW, PLUS HAVING SOME ENGINE DIFFICULTIES, I AM JUST EXPLORING SOME POSSIBILITIES. THANKS

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Your boat was designed with two engines probably because of its size and weight. You might be surprised that you may use near as much gas. That single motor will work twice as hard on its own. You are also going to put up with steering and manuevering restrictions, which in the wrong circumstances, could become a safety issue. What exactly are the engine difficulties?

 

[inlet]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

I run twin 350's I've experimented using my fuel flow meter trying to work out the most efficient way to run my boat. It is not practical to run one engine, you save a bit if your willing to idle along, but it is more efficent after that to run both engines. Fuel is a big thing now, more and more boats are pretending they're trawlers and going along at hull speed. My fuel consumption is cut in half on a per mile basis if I travel along at 1400 revs/7 knots, verses 3400 revs/20 knots.

 

[rperla]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Hi Jeff and Warren,<br />I just bought the boat 4 months ago. When i bought it i went on a sea trial and both engines ran well. The boat has been sitting for a few months now. I am having a mechanic check it next week. The one engine I am having trouble with won't stay running. It will start pretty well, but stalls after a few seconds. I am thinking it has something to do with the carburation system.

 

[crazy charlie]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Could be something as simple as a clogged carb filter or a water seperator that is ready for a change.Charlie

 

[rperla]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

hI cHARLIE<br />THANKS FOR YOUR RESPONSE

 

[beezee28]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Capt Ken,<br />Can you explain what is free wheel? I am a novice at this.<br />Thanks

 

[Trent]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Free wheel.... THe engine thats not running will "free wheel" because of moving water turning the propeller and the transmission.

 

[QC]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

Originally posted by Trent:<br /> THe engine thats not running will "free wheel" because of moving water turning the propeller and the transmission.

Just to clarify, the "engine" won't free wheel, but the propeller and trans will. Must be in neutral.

 

[achris]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

something else to think about. If you only run on one engine you'll need to change propeller to avoid damage to that engine, due to overloading. You would have to do all the prop tests again to find the right size, but start with 4" less than the current props.<br /><br />Just my 0.02<br /><br />Chris...................

 

[rperla]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

HOW DO YOU PERFORM THE PROP TESTS?

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

rperla, I think it is the consensus that you would be far better off to get the other motor running. It would be more enjoyable to you and safer to anyone near you on the water

 

[rperla]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

I AGREE JEFF, AND I AM LEARNING A LOT.<br />THE MECHANIC IS SCHEDULED TO CHECK THINGS OUT ON JUNE 2. IF ANYONE HAS ANY MECHANICS TO RECOMMEND IN THE HUNTINGTON HARBOR, CAL. I WOULD APPRECIATE IT.

 

[Richard Petersen]

Re: Using one inboard engine of a twin

What are you going to do when the good engine quits? In windy, wavey weather? Throw the anchor and see how long the bilge pump works off the battery? Boats are cars IF you can stand and walk on water.