Renault Couach RC8D replacement

[jamie N]

There are many variables available I do realise, however I'm having to replace my RC8D, 8hp single cylinder motor with a replacement as the 'incumbent' has reached the end of its serviceable life. The boat is an International Folkboat, Mahogany on Oak (with Teak decks!), 27' long and around 2 metric tonnes.
I'm after an item that does have a gearbox, shaft and propeller.
Does anyone have this available?
As an aside, this is written after viewing a fabulous weekend of Rugby, thus please find this as an excuse for the grammar etc................

 

[Tranona]

You won't find a direct replacement as modern engines have different mountings, but usually not difficult to modify your existing engine beds. You will also find you have to change the prop and probably the stern gear as it will be worn. Physically and in terms of power the Kubota based Beta or Nanni 14 would be appropriate. The Yanmar 1GM will also fit but is a bit short on power and less refined (but cheaper). You can get recommendations from the maker or importer for a package to replace your existing engine. Other possibilities are Vetus, Yanmar 15 or Volvo D1, but think you will find the first two the most competitive.

You may, of course find a used engine, but these are rare on the market as obviously anybody who has a good engine is unlikely to sell it and you may find in the long run it is better to buy new.

 

[grievesie]

If you are used to the thump/thump of a one cylinder engine and don't require freshwater cooling (and possibilty of a calorifier for hot water) then the baby Yanmar 1GM10 10hp would be your cheapest option - very reliable and long lived. It will be more than adequate for a Folkboat as 4-5hp per tonne is the usual rule of thumb. The limiting factor on a small long keeler is usually the size of prop the rudder aperture can take (I used to own a Frances 26 so know all about this) - there is no point fitting a much bigger engine if the prop size is limited. Used and recon 1GM10 units are sometimes sold by Yanmar dealers where perfectly serviceable 1GM10 engines are replaced because customers feel they need/want a bigger engine. Also worth looking at private ad sites (boatsandoutboards.co.uk and Apolloduck.co.uk) where someone is selling after doing a DIY engine upgrade (obviously no guarantees with these) e.g: http://engines.apolloduck.co.uk/display.phtml?aid=286669 .

Best of luck.

 

[markus_m]

Hi Jamie,

unfortunately I can not offer you good advice about replacing your RC8D. But there is a mailing list to discuss these engines, maybe someone else there has more specific experience there: http://groups.yahoo.com/group/renault-couach-marine-diesel/.

I also have a Folkboat, but with a 2 cylinder RC12. The engine is currently in my yard, because I have to change the head gasket and check the gearbox as it slips a bit. In my case I think it is worthwhile to rebuild the engine instead of replacing it.

My Folkboat also features a pit, designed to accommodate an outboard engine. This may well be the easiest and cheapest option to replace the inboard.

Markus