Engine advice

[Talbot]

Looking at replacement diesel engine in the 37hp range and like the look of the Beta (37.5hp) and the nanni (37hp). At the moment the Nanni has scored more points cause it is lighter by some 55 lb

Do any of you have experience of either of these engines or alternatives to consider?

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Salty John]

Yanmar 3GM30F?


<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[snowleopard]

Yanmar...

not 3GM. for that HP range you're talking about the 4 cyl engines.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[boatmike]

I think you will find Beta have a very good reputation for backup and spares. They used to be Kubota based I think. If so it's a well known and reliable engine. Don't know too much about Nanni

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Talbot]

Nanni is Kubota based as well. Their 4 cylinder 4.150 at 37 hp is 319 lb, whereas equivalent vetus and Yanma engines are over 400lb, which is quite a saving in weight.

The Beta 37.5 weighs in at 374 lb, so if it is the same engine, the specs for the weight are diferent (probably doesnt include the alternator.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[boatmike]

All on price then I would say Kieth. Have dealt with Beta all OK not Nanni but that just says I dont know not that they are bad

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Koeketiene]

Yanmar 3JH4

Got one - a dream!

<hr width=100% size=1>Experience is a good teacher, but she sends in terrific bills.

 

[ChrisE]

Do you have a folding prop as well?

We are about to re-engine and have an Autoprop. I am currently having a three way conversation between Autoprop, Beta and me to determine the best combination of engine (37.5 or 43), gearbox ratio (2, 2.5 or 3) and prop size 43,46 or 47 cm. I have to say that I am impressed with the level of knowledge and enthusiasm from both companies.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Talbot]

could you please state what was your reason for going to Beta?

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[ChrisE]

Quiet, reliable and good reputation for service. I'm no engine-ophil so rely upon what I've picked up from talking to boat yards, other owners, yakking at boatshow and from advice on this board.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[colin_jones]

What are your reasons?

We fitted the 50hp Beta in late 2002 after a lot of research. I did not enjoy being forced into the expense but, in hindsight, it was one of the best moves we have ever made.

I have a dread of cambelt driven engines at sea and also wanted one based on a generator, or tractor motor ie designed to run hour on hour, day afer day - even at low revs and low load - without problem. The Beta has done just that over 2 hard seasons in UK and The Med, including a number of 24+ hour continuous engine trips, giving 6.5 knots at 1850 - 1900 rpm (max 2300)for about 3 litres ph, pushing a beamy heavy motor sailer. The smaller engine will certainly equal, or better this performance on an appropriate boat. The cold starting is quite brilliant.

Beta were very helpful, even to fitting and spraying our existing Borg Warner Velvet Drive gear box. They invited us to visit the factory to talk it over and their spares and consumables service has since been excellent.

I do not know Nanni (also Kubota based so should be OK) and have nothing against them, but you can only speak as you find.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[silverseal]

My brother fitted a marinised Ford XLD 418 engine from a car which had done about 50,000 miles - 10 years ago. It has worked faultlessly, and the cambelt change takes about 20 minutes. We change the cambelt on a 5 year basis, because it only does a few hundred hours in that time. Frankly I cannot understand why more 50 bhp engines are not converted for marine use, as the engine cost a couple of hundred quid plus the cost of marinising - say £1000 top whack - granted a gearbox and bell housing may cost another £500 or so, but the advantages are good reliable engine, cheap spares, and the prospect of ongoing spares support for a long time to come. By the way a new freshwater pump cost £28 + vat, when we changed it in January this year, along with the belts. Completely reconditioned units with 2 year warranties only cost £1400, which with marinising and new gearbox etc, is still gong to cost well under half of a specialist marine engine of the same output.
My 32 year old Kingfisher with its Ford Watermota positively refuses to die, and when it does it gets another Ford lump

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Oldhand]

I would have thought the 3JH3 is closer to the power output required - more efficient too, less internal friction with 3 cylinders.

<hr width=100% size=1>

 

[Koeketiene]

Don't see your point at all.

- The 3JH4 produces 39HP @ 3000 rpm - pretty much what he's looking at.
- Has 3 cylinders

When motoring gives me a steady 6.4kts at 2700 rpm - fuel consumption 3ltrs/hr


<hr width=100% size=1>Experience is a good teacher, but she sends in terrific bills.