Re-engine Snapdragon 747

[Kyle2]

I am considering replacing the Volvo MD1B inboard diesel in my Snapdragon 747. I am considering doing the job myself. Has anyone out there got recent experience of fitting an engine in one of these boats? I'd be grateful for any advice on what engine might be most suitable, the best fit, etc. Thanks in advance.

 

[Rabbie]

Don't know about the Volvo Andy, but I removed a 1GM Yanmarfrom my Snap24 last winter and replaced it, all by myself. A bit of 4x2 over the hatch sides with a chain driven pully block (hired) made the job (almost) a doddle.

 

[john_morris_uk]

There is no simple easy answer.

You will get some posts (and possibly pm's very shortly) saying that Beta are the answer. Beta MIGHT be the answer, but there may be others.

In the meantime,

1. Measure the engine space in all directions.

2. It is very unlikely that whatever engine you fit, the engine beds will be in the right place.

3. Price up Yanmar 1GM10, and all similar engines and get their data sheets.

4. Check whether they will fit.

5. Negotiate the best deal.

If any Snapdragon owners are out there who have already done this - then they will have some first hand opinions. Their opinions might be worth waiting for...

 

[Rabbie]

Noting what John has just posted, I would add that the engine bearers fit the 1GM without modification. I assume that this was the original engine fitted.

 

[MoodySabre]

We re-engine our Snappie 26 with a Beta 10 - had it done by a one-man band. The engine was a bit taller than the old petrol one so I had to alter the height on the first by a couple of inches. It needed new bearer plates but otherwise was fine. A little underpowered if pushing wind and tide. I always felt it needed more prop but what do I know....

 

[JasB]

I am doing it at the moment, a Vire 6 out, and a Vire 7 into a Snapdragon 24/747.

Both these fit, but I hear the Yanmar 1GM10 is a good diesel fit

...oh yeah, and even with both engines being the same make I had to butcher the engine mounts to get the 7 to fit. So be prepared to splash some resin about.

Bukh is another make that was recommended to me.

I forgot to mention, don't be afraid to make up new engine mounts,
a: the engine power is unlikely to be so great as to need a perfect job done
b: the Snapdragon hull is built like a tank and can take a lot of battering when removing the old mounts. ( I saw one being drilled for new water inlets/outlets last year, 3/4 inch thick...bulletproof, although that might only be that particular boat)

 

[marilynch]

My Snappy 747 has a 10hp Beta that was fitted in 2004 by her previous owner... If this helps?

 

[hollandd]

fitted beta 10 a year ago had to remodel engine beds to align gearbox to propshaft (removed volvo 2001) but i understand beta do as down angled gearbox to overcome this problem.
very pleased with engine but routing of fuel return pipe needs to be done so that it goes below bottom of tank to prevent drainback of fuel.
fuel and exhaust were on oppisite side to volvo so had to be rerouted
pm me with any other queries