Prarie 29 with Perkins 4-108

[geoleo]

I'm looking at 2 used P29 s .They both have the Perkins 4-108. Ads say 50HP at 4000 rpm. However I have had 2 of these engine in my sailboats and know they actually only produce 37HP at a usable rpm. (3000) I am concerned that this is not enough to drive these P29s thru a chop into a 15mph headwind here in Gulf of Mexico and that I will be struggling slooowly. Also concerned that it will be very noisy at 2600rpm. A friend has a P29 with the Perking 4-236 and it is puuuurfect ---but it has 85HP> He cruises at 1800rpm quietly.

 

[jacquesm]

The type of engine was a major factor when I bought my Prairie 29. I have a 4236 and the boat cruises 6 knots at 1,800 rpm. Quiet and smooth.