GOING MODULAR...

Ok, so I've changed my mind a few times, about more than a few things! I have a feeling I will change my mind some more. So what to do? Keep changing directions, over and over again? No. The answer for me is to go "Modular" with the project. What I mean is basically design the boat's spaces and systems to accept any engine / transmission I want to put in it, at any time in the boat's life. This is a revelation for me (I'm a slow learner) and makes perfect sense, to me anyway.

I'm starting by evaluating as many possible engine configurations that I believe could work well in the boat. I know I want the single inboard configuration. That is fixed, not to be changed, I like inboards. Now, with that said, the potential engines that could go into the boat are many. I am going to narrow the field just a bit and build toward engines I think would be best, for this application.

So here's a few engines that will do just fine in a 25 Bertram single. 454 Chevy, Cummins 6BTA, 4BTA (250hp version), QSC, QSM. CAT 3208, 3116, C7, C9, Detroit 6V53, 453TI, 371TI, 47ITI

Building a boat that can easily accommodate any of the engines should not be too difficult. It's really pretty easy, evaluate each engine and design around the one with the largest requirements. In my case that means designing around the larger Cummins and CAT's, and the other engines should slide right in with minimal changes. The design should also easily handle the Yanmars and Volvos as well (not that they are on my list) This is were the information that I will be providing on the site will become really useful, to lots of people.

What spurred this on? Common sense, and having a good understanding of myself! Without a doubt, I'll find another engine (after the boat is 85% built) that I want to stick in there. The intent is to get the Bertram on the water as soon as possible, when another power option comes along the conversion should be a straight forward engine / transmission swap.

Here's the basics of the modular design concept:

1) The exhaust needs to be sized for a single 6" diameter run, on the starboard side of the machinery space.

2) The raw water intake should be sized for a 2" inlet.

3) The engine bay space should be totally isolated (water tight) from the fuel tank spaces...this is for the gasser options. (I fear fire)

4) The engine bay and cowling should be sized for the CAT C9 (this eats some deck space when one of the smaller engines goes in)

5) The fuel system requires return fittings and lines, for the diesel applications and will be run in 1/2" tube.

You may win Tony!!!!!

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