Xraycharlie wrote:
I am planning to purchase a used trawler in the 40-45 foot range in the next few years. One of the things I am not sure about is going with one engine or two.*
*A true trawler in the 40-45 ft range is easily powered by a single normally aspirated engine many with a track record of excellent service. With proper service the likely hood*of a surprise engine failure is very small and in my opinion well worth the risk, even in the Bahamas. The extra cost and maintenance of another engine just makes the negative aspects (more work) of boating more apparent. Regardless I would carry an EPIRB or other reliable communication device when boating in isolated areas, regardless of one or 2 engines. If for nothing else, medical emergencies.*
But I think there are more issues to consider. When searching for a boat for me and my wife, I could not fine a trawler in our price range that my wife liked. Most where all beat to h*ll and I could hardly get her to look at them, ever though I felt there was potential. We finally settled on a go fast twin and I have no regrets. She loves going on the boat and that means more to me than anything else.*
I know this discussion is not about going fast or not, and having come from many years as a sailor I really thought a trawler would suit my needs. However now with the capability of going 15-20 knots our cruising area has expanded*exponentially. Our favorite anchorage is about 30 miles and just was not do able on a weekend when sailing. However now that and many other areas are easily cruised to on weekends with plenty of time at the anchorage. If you have all the time in the world, the go fast aspect is not as important of course, but just the capability of getting somewhere before sun set that you might not otherwise be able to do is comforting.*
Choice of engines is another important factor one that is not normally discussed. A normally aspirated Perkins or Ford Lehman even if somewhat abused is still pretty reliable. Not so with a high*performance*turbo charged diesel with raw water-cooling. I have two of these high*performance*diesels and though I can go like h*ll they can be*temperamental. They are reliable if properly maintained, but I don't think I would get a single engine boat with one of these engines.*
If you get a twin you do have the option of using just one engine. This has been discussed before on this forum:*
http://www.trawlerforum.com/forum.spark?aBID=115492&topicID=38913265&p=3
My experience shows significant fuel savings though if you read the above thread not all agree. Some will argue why buy a twin if you cruise on one. My reply: Options; to save fuel if desired or get there fast if necessary.* Blocking of the shaft on the unused engine is necessary and probably more work that its worth, but to each his own.
Good luck on your search and let us know what you get.*
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