Dolphin petrol engine

[Bladerunner]

I'm looking at a Snapdragon 26 this week that has a Dolphin inboard petrol engine.
Can anybody tell me what the reliability is like for these engines ?
Also, are there any problems with this make of boat that I should look out for ?
Any information that is given will be greatly appreciated.

Many thanks in advance

<hr width=100% size=1> Bladerunner - Hung like Einstein. Brains like a donkey

 

[firstascent2002]

good engines. still made. do a web search any you'll find the manufacture's web site and chat to them direct. Engine I'm sure you'll find fine but..do you want petrol? Consider danger and poor fuel avaliability at marinas and economy.

That considered, dad swears by them...

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[petery]

I believe you had to stop and re-start the early Dolphin (mk 1?) engines to make them go in reverse as they were not supplied with a reversing gearbox.

Two members of our yacht club have fitted outboards and now use the Dolphin engines as extra ballast after too many close shaves while mooring in tight situations that needed a quick reverse!

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[toad]

The early Dolphins had no reverse gear,you had to stop the engine and restart it running backwards,just what you want going into a lock or marina.The later ones had a gearbox.Snapdragons are no flyers but are strongly built and a lot of boat for the money

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[Kurrawong_Kid]

Had a Mark 1 for 9 years in an Elizabethan 30. Never failed to start backwards for reverse--scared others more than me! Biggest advantage, I used to unbolt it and take it home for the winter, which allowed me to keep the engine compartment pristine. No need for a crane! I fitted an alternator kit, from Dolphin, which made sure the batteries kept up, the earliest engines were dynastart charged which did not give me enough charge to keep the service battery up. Quiet,light and smooth running. Make sure you keep the electrics dry though !

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[Bladerunner]

Looked at the snapdragon today and decided it isn't really for me.

The engine is of the type that has to be stopped so you can engage reverse.

Unfortunately, while the outside looks very nice and it's the size I am looking for, the interior needs a complete refit. That includes new instruments.

The headsail is three years old and the main is a year older.

A tender and (very) old inflatable is included in the price (£6000)

I can't help but think this is overpriced by about £2000 as it is a private sale.

This is my first boat and I want to make sure I get the best value for my meagre funds.

Many thanks for the replies and if anybody knows of a boat that fits the bill please let me know.

<hr width=100% size=1> Bladerunner - Hung like Einstein. Brains like a donkey

 

[WhiteDart]

I have owned an Invicta 26 for around 15 years with a Dolphin Mk I.
I thoroughly recommend this engine. The manufacters are in Bodmin, Cornwall.
Easily removed from yacht for maintenance, only weighs 90lbs. Has never let me down or needed a strip down or major work. So much quieter & less vibration than diesel. No problem switching forward to reverse, though new engines have a gearbox. Economical 4 hours/gallon @ 4.5 knots and minimal maintenance costs.

Regards

Stefan

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