You know what I told you on the phone but at the same time I know you’re dying to go gas. I still say rebuild and stay diesel. If you’re concerned about resale, look at the value of gas boats vs diesel. I finally got a diesel boat and will never go back to gas unless it’s outboards and even then I’d try to find a diesel version.
Yeah Chris, as a boater with a gas motor I would love to have it diesel. We own an rv with a Caterpillar C7s Diesel engine and love it way more than gas. Would love to own a diesel drive fishing boat. For now ours is gas, for now...
What about lesla motors and a big generator they make 400v 20 to 100kwh and bigger that run at 700 to 1500rpm and burn ⅛ of the diesel your two motors burn or forget about the tesla motors and buy a complete kit 1generator 2 motors and battery power packs and controllers probably the best option for you and with a 100 kwh at 400v push that boat to 60+ mph don't try that in not sure if the haul can take that much pressure from the water colliding with the from of the boat
Spot on. If you swap for gas engines you need to seriously consider the safety aspect too. Everything needs to be intrinsically safe with added bilge blowers and auto fire extinguishers.
Diesel....and it’s not even a discussion. Here is a small list of reasons: Ethanol issues suck Diesel much more safe to run on a boat than gas Boat already rigged to run diesel. You would have to install ventilation, blowers and other stuff not needed with diesel Diesel much better torque and it’s not just for top end, but also for boat handling and maneuvering Diesel cheaper and you already know about the fuel expense. Stick with diesel, the next guy who buys it from you would want you to keep the diesels....
Luis Vallecillo I’m with Luis on this. I had a 32’ Cris Conny I moored in Scapoose that had twin 283 Chevies. Like you said gasoline is expensive and it’s dangerous as all hell.
Not to mention the heat those gas engines are going to produce. He really needs to rebuild both of those diesels (or at least rebuild the problem engine and pull down and inspect the still running engine)
last thing you want is something goes wrong (i mean its B is for Build) in the water, its alot harder to get help on a boat in the middle of no where in the water than in a car on the side of the road...
REBUILD THE DIESELS! This is a CABIN CRUISER and NOT a "speed boat". Too much power will likely DESTROY the boat without MASSIVE HULL REINFORCEMENTS! This is the ocean going version of a MOTORHOME RV. It is an Italian Winnebago or "Waterbago". Go ahead and do some modernization and upgrades, but do NOT try to turn this thing into a "race boat", that would be like trying to put an RV bus into a race with purpose built track cars.
the twin tesla motors would complement its characteristics of a 'waterbago' by modernising and making the propulsion system incredibly reliable, while being suited to a regular cruising speed. The batteries would also give the ability to have a high power circuit on the boat, you could plug in household appliances with ease. The current large diesel fuel system and twin engines could be replaced with a single small diesel connected to an electric generator as a redundancy backup. Care and planning would need to be considered to prevent the boat sitting too low in the waterline
Hate to say it Axle, but you're not understanding the nature of the Riva. The Riva boats are not Cabin Cruisers or an "RV on the water". They are the AMG of luxury yachts. I don't think you understand what it takes to make a 40' boat that weighs more than 25,000 lbs do 40 knots on the water. That's like trying to make a luxury tour bus that will run an 11 second quarter mile. The closest thing to an RV on the water is a trawler-style boat. Big lumbering boats that have lots of living space, but max out at 25 knots. Your better 40' cabin cruiser/sport fishing boat will max out at about 30 kts. The Riva is like an AMG Mercedes: Luxury and Performance. Not the ultimate in either category, but enough of both to make you giggle every time you use it.
As an experienced Diesel Mechanic, I strongly recommend that you get into the P-Pump, remove the governor springs Riva put in it, and install the OEM governor springs. 3300 is the max you should ever run those engines. 4k is like trying to run an LS at 9k.
Very well stated, I can’t agree more I’m also a diesel mechanic. The p pump is the way to go I got one on my 12v cummins. The rebuild is the best option IMO
I’m with you. Get the professional to look at it FIRST! Repairs will be cheaper than any of the other options they were considering. Then go another 30 years.
Youric Hunt because otherwise you’re trailing a 903 around until you can find someone to drop it off with plus the mentioned possibly fixing it in place.
@Youric Hunt They can perform some tests on the motor to see if the bottom end really needs rebuilding. That types of diesel engines are tough as nails, it could be just head gaskets, or injection pump.
might be best to get both engines rebuilt, theyre 30 years old so it definitely wouldnt hurt. idk if its possible but maybe change the fuel system to common rail and he could make a lot more power too
Here's my nickel's worth of advice: Go diesel, they last longer, and will be lower in maintenance cost per year. Having worked in a shipyard for seven years, from Volvo Pentas to EMD electric diesels,, and having my own engine rebuilding shop for a few years,, please,, go diesel. There are a few mods that can be done to diesels that will surprise you, and will be more cost efficient in the long run. Check with Banks for that, I think you might be pleasantly surprised! EDIT : Also, you might be surprised how engine monitoring has changed since this boat was built,, you can go all digital if you want.
Do you want to buy a diesel engine? We are a Chinese manufacturer specializing in the production of marine products such as diesel engines, propellers and ships
Honestly keeping a Cummins in it is definitely the safest option. Parts are available everywhere. Even if there isn’t a shop for parts directly at the harbor you can probably get parts from a mobile equipment repair company deal (think like the people who come out to fix construction equipment, they all carry the most common parts for Cummins and probably won’t mind taking them out to the marina
Scenario 1: "You see that B is for Boat episode?" "Oh the one where they swapped in two 408's from Texas Speed and made their own exhuast, and tuned two engines at the same time then ripped it down the river until they pushed a head gasket in the ocean?" Scenario 2: "You see that B is for Boat episode where his diesel was repaired then they got lunch?" "Nah, didn't catch that one" We're in it to win it either way, but this is B is for BUILD! Since when do we gotta choose the smartest option?
For a yacht, I’d say stick with diesel. Maybe for a speed boat then go with Texas Speed. But just for cruising and reliability and the cheaper option then go with the diesel
I used to work for an authorized distributor for Cummins right down the street from Cummins South Eastern Power in Tampa. We were the shop everyone would come to after warranty was over. We rebuilt everything ourselves except the heads which we got recon from Cummins. My job was to rebuild and calibrate the injector pumps. Now while a lot of our work was done to spec, a lot of people wanted to shoot flames out the stacks too. This was easily done by raising the fuel pressures, injector flows, and turbo upgrades. Now those engines probably didn't last as long as a spec engine but those engines got their loads over the mountain no problem. What I'm trying to say is you can do a lot with the engines you have, please don't gas.
Dude trust me. I've done 7 high performance engines in the last 4 years in my boat. The amount of money it takes to get it right is absolutely astounding and I did most of the work myself. TRUST ME, fix the diesels or replace with newer marine diesels. Your heading down a path that could be years and never will be right.
@some random guy my guess not knowing the commentor is that the configuration for the boat isn't quite right and the balance of performance and reliability is wrong. Boats tend to be a bit of a nightmare when you start tinkering or modifying them, on top of that their engines tend to run at consistently high output for extended periods of time, so engines for boats tend to need to not only be high performance but also be built for reliability at or near their top end. Even engines built for 24hr endurance racing aren't running at the extremely high output levels for as long as an engine in a boat. Also You don't have gears to shift through like a car on the road to reduce engine RPMs, basically the transmission is just a differential final gearing with a forward and reverse gear.
@@pauledwards9416 I bought a used boat, and repaired it. Enjoyed it for a summer and a half doing the maintenance on it and sold it to a friend. 3 things I learned, owning a boat is great until you have to fix it. Selling the boat is even better... And finally never sell a boat to anyone you want to stay friends with.
Keep what you know will work. What you have lasted 30 years, you would have gone through at least 3 change outs with gas engines. Torque outlasts hp every time. Go Diesel!
reading these comments and listening to what this guy says ..tells me many of you guys don't know dick about boats, yachts in particular. those diesels I this boat were junk 20 yrs ago..and yachting is expensive..the guy who sold this boat to him took him for a ride. I would look for some older cats a 3208t version. they are reliable and way more common. easier to obtain parts for ..just not as much hp.
Hi Everyone, for what it's worth the sensible option is to rebuild both the original engines so you know for sure they are reliable. Then look at some of the sexy stuff like variable pitch propellers, engine sensors with auto shutdowns, modern gearboxes, balanced propshafts and props and the addition of a backup rudder system so you can steer it if you lose one engine. Looking forward to the next vid.
Don't waste money, engine rebuilt is the best option. Then you can do some upgrades, like fuel pump, injectors and turbos. I suggest bigger oil sump. Greetings from Italy 🇮🇹
Fix the current engines, and reinstall them. You’ll get a lot of mileage out of them, and you’re not going to lose a ton of $$ if you choose to sell the yacht down the road.
Gotta agree here, the boat world is not like auto, the resale value of the boat with original engines professionally rebuilt will be much greater than that of a resto-mod'ed craft. Plus, its the cheaper option that makes the most sense, saving some pocket money to put into the single seater!
What size generator to keep 2 or 3 telsa electric motors running? I would like to eliminate my twin vdrive 350s and add one diesel generator with a few telsa motors
remember that part of this isn't the cost. He can't really rebuild those marine engines himself thus going that route results in no content. On the other hand pulling cummins diesels from a couple ram 3500's and modding them, that he can do.
@@mizinoinovermyhead.7523 you DEFINITELY can rebuild those engines yourself. I dont know who told him he cant. You can get an entire kit where literally the only reused component is the block and head, it comes with everything from new valves, springs, seals to cylinder liners, a new totally redone crank, you reuse rods but they send pistons and rings already fitted to the liners...it really is like legos to rebuild the older diesels like that.
@@blackopsrocks The issue is size my friend, those engines weigh as much as many cars you need a specialized hoist, and engine dolly to rebuild one, yes you can get the parts, but they are a different animal in size.
@@mizinoinovermyhead.7523 I work at a Toyota dealership and we just rebuilt 2 marine engines based on a Land Cruiser 80 diesel engine. We had to send one of the new blocks to get custom machining done, but we got it done. So I don't think that these guys can't manage if a dealership can.
When you are facing a large head sea for hours and hours, you will appreciate the mass and inertia of the diesels crankshaft, balancer, flywheel. Huge difference on how a big boat rides with all that weight down low in the bilge
i bet he is never going anywhere near out of his comfort zone...just sea show off and having fun with his friends...ive seen people renting a 57 beneteau just to go in 3 nearby ports to get drunk and fly back home.
New sub from Emelia's channel! I've found, when I don't know what I don't know, that it's better to stick with what I have. Especially with aspirations to go ocean cruising, you can never have too much power, but you can definitely have too little, while you're out on the blue water. If you're going to rebuild the engines anyway, I'd put some hours on them and give them a chance to redeem themselves. You'd even pointed out that it's a solid block, and it was designed for this application. If nothing else, it buys time to really think this through and do the proper research. You might even find you like working on diesels. Also, be very careful about automatic engine shutdowns at sea. Unlike roads, water is always moving, which means you are basically always maneuvering unless you're moored to something. A sudden engine shutdown in rough sea conditions could wreck you quickly.
REBUILD. THOSE. DAMN. ENGINES!! There's a reason why they are there!! I also love gasoline engines but here diesel is the one to go for in marine application!!
Sounds to me like the Italians already did the thinking on this one! How about new turbo chargers on re-built engines. A resto-mod and the bonus is that you all get to learn about diesel engines...
I'm a new subscriber and a retired truck driver with over 30 years on the road and driving diesels of all sizes. The right way for you to go with your classic Italian beauty, and keeping the value at top notch is STAY original!! Rebuild! There is no way those engines will ever take the abuse of a diesel powering a million mile truck, and when they get worn out, we rebuilt them, NOT replace with them with something other than what the truck came off the line at Detroit with. Who would want a Lamborghini with a Ford engine? Your new rebuilds will last another 30 years easy.
just about all the boats I seen electric swapped sank because of little things they neglected to R&D properly like exhaust ports leaking after a few days making the ship sink in minuets. It is about the most dangerous and risky thing you can do to a sail boat that is being used for sea crossings but if you just want to cruise a river I guess that's less danger.
Chris, I really enjoy your show. I spent 6 years in the Navy. I enjoyed every minute of it. I love being on the water. That's why I really enjoy this part of your channel. What you need to do is think about your decision to buy this boat. If, you bought the boat as an investment in fun, you really need to consider rebuilding the engines and putting them back in the boat. They were designed to be what you need to get everything you want from a boat. If you wish to go slow and not go too far, they are fairly efficient. If you wish to go fast and far, they are efficient enough for that purpose. If you intend to enjoy the boat for a while and eventually sell it, you will get the best return on your investment. I know that you like to do a lot of crazy stuff and have fun. That's part of the draw of your channel. I think that you should rebuild and reinstall these engines and get the fullest amount of fun you can out of the boat. New engines would be best for all scenarios, but I don't think that that would be cost effective and you would not get enough return on your investment to justify the expense. That's a great boat in great condition. You have done a fair amount of work on it to make it look good and function properly. I think that you should repair the original equipment and get the most fun out of that bad-ass boat as you can. Good luck
Just rebuild the cummins, they were built to run and run, and most marine engines not all but most were built to stay dormant for weeks on end, my vote rebuild, and have fun.
You didn't mention highly efficient common rail diesel generator electric motors? I have been wondering if that is something that would work. Although now on my slightly smaller boat I am hooked on my VM Motori 504LS.
Diesel. Why do boats, ships, buses, high-powered generators, all sorts of heavy-duty industrial and construction equipment and indestructible old Mercedes run with diesel instead of gasoline? Because they're built to last. Treat the diesel right (make sure it has oil pressure!) and it won't give you problems. Treat a gasoline engine right and it'll work most of the time, but not as long. Put a non-marine engine with automotive stuff in a boat? It'll be OK for a while.
While the obvious answer is to rebuild the diesel, I'm glad you're still thinking outside of the box and trying to do something different. That's what made the channel, I'm not sure why folks are surprised by this.
Definitely keep the Diesel engines, one of the reasons they are so heavy is because they need weight to displace a wake on a boat and keep a boat planted
I really really wish automotive engines followed the OPs method. Like, really wish, but instead years of tweaked/paint huffing “engine builders” have made the reality factory first.
Rebuild yes but no need for higher horse power or torque, if anything for reliability reduction of power is an option 20 knots is desirable 40 is being an ass hole and will get you in trouble on the water. Fun on a flat lake but on a choppy sea or river will turn into a nightmare
In a future episode: "While Oscar is manning the oar, I'll be looking online to see where I can find an electrical outlet to plug into." Just rebuild the Cummings, mate. More capability for less cost.
Hey guys. I am a trucker from Ohio. The gas engine thing sounds fun. And I would love 2 big blocks belting it out across the river. But from a practical standpoint, and being a truck driver, nothing proforms like a diesel when you want something to go to work for you. And nothing is more reliable. My 2000 Mack is pushing a million miles and I run it hard. And as you said. Reliable, fuel efficient, and lower cost. I love the rumble of a V-8 but Diesel have a cool sound in there own right.
Dude rip both engines out and rebuild them. You really considering going overboard and dropping 70-100k for a weekend boat. Spend the 20k and refresh the engines.
Well, in my opinion, they’re tried and tried diesels, they lasted 30+ years with unknown maintenance, might be worth it to rebuild the originals and keep it to the k.i.s.s. theory and let em roll for another 30+ years
just fix the diesel engine, and have the second engine fully gone through too for good measure. diesel power is good for marine for many reasons, thats why its commonplace
Rebuild the diesels and add an electric engine for low-speed cruising. Make it a hybrid! (Bonus points if the diesels can be used for charging the batteries).
If he's looking to do something unique for his channel I think you're idea is an excellent one. My only concern would be weight with the heavy diesel engines and a battery large enough to have any practical range between recharges.
The 'first boat learning curve' is HUGE ! Best advice I can give is "it was built exactly that way for a reason ... don't change anything. Even the silicone you use must be marine grade (3M 4200/5200 for example). Marine parts don't just say they are marine, they are marine. Hire a professional NOW to asses the situation. Leave the good engine alone unless you have a good reason to do otherwise. The bad engine must have a accurate failure diagnosis but could very possibly be repaired in the boat. Highway trucks for example can get a "in-frame overhaul" which is a complete rebuild without removing the crankshaft from the block. There is nothing half assed about leaving the good engine alone unless it has ungodly hours on it. Did I mention hire a professional? Boats are easy to drive? Don't let your insurance guy hear you say that...
Highway trucks can be in-framed because there's room under the engine to pull the oil pan and remove rod caps. Boats make that a no go because engine is against the hull. Only top end work in place.
903s are hard to find parts for, even for dealers and distributors. Best option if you don't want to go to a Cummins dealer, contact a local plant or large facility with old fire suppression systems. A lot of them were 903 powered and they may have a source for parts. Have fun!!
Sure, most locomotives are diesel electric hybrids and the hybrids have been making their way to marine use, too, large cruise ships and all the way to submarines. You wouldn't have the getting stranded problem and you would get the benefit of cheap diesel and quick refuelling.
@@ghomerhust Don't comment on a topic you don't know, aka they don't use batteries as that would kill them (think about charging and discharging at the same time at a high rate = battery death). They use the gen power straight to power motors (no battery) and onboard power use. While I would love somebody to try this out on a small scale (used in the new aircraft carrier QE class, new cruise ships) it would cost too much to make/develop the support and management systems (millions of dollars) for a proper install and not enough space on the boat - unless they made a getto system that would work like crap.
Nothing wrong with an old boat. As long as you get it from an American manufacturer. Just repowered an older (early 90’s)scarborough there was no rot anywhere on the boat.
That's...not how that works. More boost requires more fuel. More fuel requires bigger injectors and more fuel pressure. Not the simplest thing to accomplish on ~30 year old diesels that are out of production.
Increasing fuel for additional boost is very simple on a mechanical pump diesel. Even if his engines are a newer style electric over hydraulic injection, most systems are capable of doing 150% of the engine’s maximum fuel requirements.
From a boat owner, I would love to see a high powered gas swap because I would NEVER do it, but from a standpoint of what you SHOULD do its rebuild those engines.
Would be cool to see the boat gas powered and with everything we have missed this year with COVID-19 it gives all of us on the channel something to look forward to at the single seater got pushed back .
great video! question, when you looked at electric, did you recalculate performance eliminating 2 super heavy engines and huge fuel tank, and the engines related stuff, exhaust fan, transmission, etc... So, very cool video and thinking out of the box!
You know what I told you on the phone but at the same time I know you’re dying to go gas. I still say rebuild and stay diesel. If you’re concerned about resale, look at the value of gas boats vs diesel. I finally got a diesel boat and will never go back to gas unless it’s outboards and even then I’d try to find a diesel version.
Yeah Chris, as a boater with a gas motor I would love to have it diesel. We own an rv with a Caterpillar C7s Diesel engine and love it way more than gas. Would love to own a diesel drive fishing boat. For now ours is gas, for now...
when did u get a boat and whens the vid coming out??
Fariha Sajjad, he’s actually an avid boater (See Instagram). He has a boat channel called ChrisFish.
Check out Oxe diesel outboard. 300hp BMW 6 cylinder diesel. :-D
What about lesla motors and a big generator they make 400v 20 to 100kwh and bigger that run at 700 to 1500rpm and burn ⅛ of the diesel your two motors burn or forget about the tesla motors and buy a complete kit 1generator 2 motors and battery power packs and controllers probably the best option for you and with a 100 kwh at 400v push that boat to 60+ mph don't try that in not sure if the haul can take that much pressure from the water colliding with the from of the boat
Rebuild, and reuse current engines. Use the "leftover" money to get a smaller boat, and slap a Texas Speed LS in it.
Best idea i have read yet.
Every yacht needs a tender with a Texas Speed turbocharged big block engine.
YES!
This is best idea so far
Great idea
Rebuild the original diesel engines imo. They're literally designed for that boat so should be reliable and last ages.
@Pornhub Official I'd like to see them rebuild the engines themselves.
@@chadzentner8213 same and at the same time give them a little uograde. Cost wise I think Diesel is far better.
@Pornhub Officialrebuild the engine, talk with the guy that rebuild them and put bigger turbo on? Mooore power baby
Electric isn't reliable, you need reliable on the water. I say either rebuild or swap to ol trusty big block chevy.
I'd like to see B is for Build send it and make a power boat
Rebuild the diesels, buy a “small” boat for a fun LS/electric project.
Good idea
Spot on.
If you swap for gas engines you need to seriously consider the safety aspect too. Everything needs to be intrinsically safe with added bilge blowers and auto fire extinguishers.
What about running an engine to power an electric generation system to power the tesla system.
Just refresh those engines, they've lasted 30 years thus far, and they are made for exactly this job
yes, no brainer. maybe you could do some relatively inexpensive upgrades to them too
Diesel....and it’s not even a discussion. Here is a small list of reasons:
Ethanol issues suck
Diesel much more safe to run on a boat than gas
Boat already rigged to run diesel. You would have to install ventilation, blowers and other stuff not needed with diesel
Diesel much better torque and it’s not just for top end, but also for boat handling and maneuvering
Diesel cheaper and you already know about the fuel expense.
Stick with diesel, the next guy who buys it from you would want you to keep the diesels....
Luis Vallecillo I’m with Luis on this. I had a 32’ Cris Conny I moored in Scapoose that had twin 283 Chevies. Like you said gasoline is expensive and it’s dangerous as all hell.
Not to mention the heat those gas engines are going to produce.
He really needs to rebuild both of those diesels (or at least rebuild the problem engine and pull down and inspect the still running engine)
Give a diesel air and fuel... They will keep running... Underwater...
This guy boats.
Plus they should last hundreds or rather actually thousands of hours. Trouble free hours that will run hour in and hour out.
Rebuild the Diesel engines and throw oil cleaning centrifuges on each of them to keep them running for a very long time.
"Oil cleaning centrifuges"????
Nnnopppeeee
Rebuild the diesel. The channel is about learning things - I'd love to learn more about a marine diesel engine.
The difference is the oil pan, and everything is painted.
Chris my brother. Stay diesel. Rebuild those cummins and call it the day.
+1
last thing you want is something goes wrong (i mean its B is for Build) in the water, its alot harder to get help on a boat in the middle of no where in the water than in a car on the side of the road...
... And while the motors are being rebuilt the hull can get refreshed, and all else gets some big
B is for Boat 💜
keep the original engines just do a full rebuild and maybe update some of the tech for better efficiency and performance
Plus add some improved engine monitoring maybe?
REBUILD THE DIESELS!
This is a CABIN CRUISER and NOT a "speed boat". Too much power will likely DESTROY the boat without MASSIVE HULL REINFORCEMENTS!
This is the ocean going version of a MOTORHOME RV. It is an Italian Winnebago or "Waterbago".
Go ahead and do some modernization and upgrades, but do NOT try to turn this thing into a "race boat", that would be like trying to put an RV bus into a race with purpose built track cars.
Bigger turbos
the twin tesla motors would complement its characteristics of a 'waterbago' by modernising and making the propulsion system incredibly reliable, while being suited to a regular cruising speed. The batteries would also give the ability to have a high power circuit on the boat, you could plug in household appliances with ease. The current large diesel fuel system and twin engines could be replaced with a single small diesel connected to an electric generator as a redundancy backup. Care and planning would need to be considered to prevent the boat sitting too low in the waterline
Hate to say it Axle, but you're not understanding the nature of the Riva. The Riva boats are not Cabin Cruisers or an "RV on the water". They are the AMG of luxury yachts. I don't think you understand what it takes to make a 40' boat that weighs more than 25,000 lbs do 40 knots on the water. That's like trying to make a luxury tour bus that will run an 11 second quarter mile. The closest thing to an RV on the water is a trawler-style boat. Big lumbering boats that have lots of living space, but max out at 25 knots. Your better 40' cabin cruiser/sport fishing boat will max out at about 30 kts. The Riva is like an AMG Mercedes: Luxury and Performance. Not the ultimate in either category, but enough of both to make you giggle every time you use it.
Fix the Cummins and install a loud "low oil pressure" alarm. Beautiful boat by the way!!
Would have been too easy and not TH-cam worthy .
Rebuild those Diesel beasts would be the most cost effective way.
Rebuild the existing Diesels, they are 30 years old for a reason.
Pull core, swap at engine shop, drop-in reman block...done. He making typical newbie errors. It's a learning $$$ curve.
As an experienced Diesel Mechanic, I strongly recommend that you get into the P-Pump, remove the governor springs Riva put in it, and install the OEM governor springs. 3300 is the max you should ever run those engines. 4k is like trying to run an LS at 9k.
Nice input!!! Thank you
This.
Commenting for engagement, so they will see this internet gold.
Very well stated, I can’t agree more I’m also a diesel mechanic. The p pump is the way to go I got one on my 12v cummins. The rebuild is the best option IMO
@@timgrimes8502 Um, how are you going to put a P pump on a PT injected dinosaur like a 903?
Engine oil cooler is leaking water into the oil. Stick with diesel.
Repair the diesel!
Get a professional estimate while the engine is still IN the boat. Then pull the engine if needed.
I’m with you. Get the professional to look at it FIRST! Repairs will be cheaper than any of the other options they were considering. Then go another 30 years.
Youric Hunt because otherwise you’re trailing a 903 around until you can find someone to drop it off with plus the mentioned possibly fixing it in place.
@Youric Hunt They can perform some tests on the motor to see if the bottom end really needs rebuilding. That types of diesel engines are tough as nails, it could be just head gaskets, or injection pump.
might be best to get both engines rebuilt, theyre 30 years old so it definitely wouldnt hurt. idk if its possible but maybe change the fuel system to common rail and he could make a lot more power too
It would be better to in-frame, but access is shit on that boat. What to do?
Rebuild the Diesel engines on this boat and build a small ev boat for fun and experimenting.
That's a great idea. Fill the electric dinghy to pull behind it.
Put an electric motor for the busted engine then you have a hybrid
Yup leave the experiments for a 16 ft ski boat lol
the ev boat would be next to useless and really expensive to build and can’t be small due to the weight of the motor and battery cells
No brainer in my mind, rebuild the diesels, upgrade your gauges, and enjoy that sweet boat while keeping its resale value.
Here's my nickel's worth of advice: Go diesel, they last longer, and will be lower in maintenance cost per year. Having worked in a shipyard for seven years, from Volvo Pentas to EMD electric diesels,, and having my own engine rebuilding shop for a few years,, please,, go diesel. There are a few mods that can be done to diesels that will surprise you, and will be more cost efficient in the long run. Check with Banks for that, I think you might be pleasantly surprised! EDIT : Also, you might be surprised how engine monitoring has changed since this boat was built,, you can go all digital if you want.
Do you want to buy a diesel engine? We are a Chinese manufacturer specializing in the production of marine products such as diesel engines, propellers and ships
Definitely rebuild, changing the motor means added hassle of reballusting boat to keep handling
Rebuild the old ones. Seems simplest, cheapest and probably most reliable.
since when do they do anything that makes sense, mostly make nice parts into junk
@@MrMadtractor I wouldn't say junk but definitely feel you on the "make sense part" lol
LoLu Racing for sure man, he could probably re build the engines for not to bad
Use the money you save on other projects or to upgrade other parts of the boat like electronics or lavishes
Jaden Wells i’d say probably won’t be much maybe a tank of fuel, boats are not cheap. big fancy boats are even worse
Honestly keeping a Cummins in it is definitely the safest option. Parts are available everywhere. Even if there isn’t a shop for parts directly at the harbor you can probably get parts from a mobile equipment repair company deal (think like the people who come out to fix construction equipment, they all carry the most common parts for Cummins and probably won’t mind taking them out to the marina
Scenario 1: "You see that B is for Boat episode?" "Oh the one where they swapped in two 408's from Texas Speed and made their own exhuast, and tuned two engines at the same time then ripped it down the river until they pushed a head gasket in the ocean?"
Scenario 2: "You see that B is for Boat episode where his diesel was repaired then they got lunch?" "Nah, didn't catch that one"
We're in it to win it either way, but this is B is for BUILD! Since when do we gotta choose the smartest option?
And very cost effective all other options are not logical
Lol the white smoke when you bought it was the tell tell sign of head gasket failure
I’m on team “keep using the stock motors”
For a yacht, I’d say stick with diesel. Maybe for a speed boat then go with Texas Speed. But just for cruising and reliability and the cheaper option then go with the diesel
Rebuild the existing engines. They are a reliable known quantity.
Nah I say get some real inline 6 Cummins
I used to work for an authorized distributor for Cummins right down the street from Cummins South Eastern Power in Tampa. We were the shop everyone would come to after warranty was over. We rebuilt everything ourselves except the heads which we got recon from Cummins. My job was to rebuild and calibrate the injector pumps. Now while a lot of our work was done to spec, a lot of people wanted to shoot flames out the stacks too. This was easily done by raising the fuel pressures, injector flows, and turbo upgrades. Now those engines probably didn't last as long as a spec engine but those engines got their loads over the mountain no problem. What I'm trying to say is you can do a lot with the engines you have, please don't gas.
theres a reason big machinery runs on diesel, keep the diesles in this and buy another boat for a texas speed LS!
Rebuild the stock engines and maybe look into a turbo upgrade
@@dongdwella4922 they dont, lobster boats use em all around where I live.
Dude trust me. I've done 7 high performance engines in the last 4 years in my boat. The amount of money it takes to get it right is absolutely astounding and I did most of the work myself. TRUST ME, fix the diesels or replace with newer marine diesels. Your heading down a path that could be years and never will be right.
@some random guy my guess not knowing the commentor is that the configuration for the boat isn't quite right and the balance of performance and reliability is wrong. Boats tend to be a bit of a nightmare when you start tinkering or modifying them, on top of that their engines tend to run at consistently high output for extended periods of time, so engines for boats tend to need to not only be high performance but also be built for reliability at or near their top end. Even engines built for 24hr endurance racing aren't running at the extremely high output levels for as long as an engine in a boat. Also You don't have gears to shift through like a car on the road to reduce engine RPMs, basically the transmission is just a differential final gearing with a forward and reverse gear.
Haha I’ve done 8 high performance engines in the last 4years , you trust me
@@pauledwards9416 I bought a used boat, and repaired it. Enjoyed it for a summer and a half doing the maintenance on it and sold it to a friend. 3 things I learned, owning a boat is great until you have to fix it. Selling the boat is even better... And finally never sell a boat to anyone you want to stay friends with.
Keep what you know will work. What you have lasted 30 years, you would have gone through at least 3 change outs with gas engines. Torque outlasts hp every time.
Go Diesel!
No brainer, rebuild those beasts and put them back.
This is B is for Build though.... imagine MORE POWER!
I was just gonna say maybe bigger turbos
Lol this isn’t even a real question. Rebuild update and upgrade the motors you have.
agreed. a full refresh, modern turbos and management system, and that sucker should run solid for another 30 years.
@@ghomerhust easy 30 years
Rebuild both Engines and refit. Hassle free sailing for years to come, piece of mind and good selling point if/when you do so.
reading these comments and listening to what this guy says ..tells me many of you guys don't know dick about boats, yachts in particular. those diesels I this boat were junk 20 yrs ago..and yachting is expensive..the guy who sold this boat to him took him for a ride. I would look for some older cats a 3208t version. they are reliable and way more common. easier to obtain parts for ..just not as much hp.
@@richardsantilli1954 but that might be out of his price range
Find someone that knows these engines and see if they can be tuned. You can still add all your shut offs.
3208? C’mon man, that’s a tonka toy motor.
I would like to se a total rebuild of the diesel engines... The only way to go.👍
Rebulid - not only does it make more financial sense but there is something cool about being able to keep something like that original
I totally agree
This is the best argument by far
I think rebuilding the original engines is the “smartest” play
John Llewellyn Yeah, but where’s the fun in that?
You are right on that, could be a spare Electric motor but not principal power Electric motor its not safe.
Generators , solar cells and more battery packs for continuous charging, think like you’re building a sub. Plus fuel cells would work too.
cayó i get it
I’m a marine diesel mechanic, if you have any questions feel free to ask!! Those old Cummins are beasts
MJP jets???
Hi Everyone, for what it's worth the sensible option is to rebuild both the original engines so you know for sure they are reliable. Then look at some of the sexy stuff like variable pitch propellers, engine sensors with auto shutdowns, modern gearboxes, balanced propshafts and props and the addition of a backup rudder system so you can steer it if you lose one engine.
Looking forward to the next vid.
Holy shit! I've NEVER seen a TH-cam comments section so unanimous.
Don't waste money, engine rebuilt is the best option. Then you can do some upgrades, like fuel pump, injectors and turbos. I suggest bigger oil sump.
Greetings from Italy 🇮🇹
Fix the current engines, and reinstall them. You’ll get a lot of mileage out of them, and you’re not going to lose a ton of $$ if you choose to sell the yacht down the road.
Gotta agree here, the boat world is not like auto, the resale value of the boat with original engines professionally rebuilt will be much greater than that of a resto-mod'ed craft. Plus, its the cheaper option that makes the most sense, saving some pocket money to put into the single seater!
What size generator to keep 2 or 3 telsa electric motors running? I would like to eliminate my twin vdrive 350s and add one diesel generator with a few telsa motors
You guys should rebuild the original diesel motors. That is the safest and most reliable option and will give you the most enjoyment on the boat.
remember that part of this isn't the cost. He can't really rebuild those marine engines himself thus going that route results in no content. On the other hand pulling cummins diesels from a couple ram 3500's and modding them, that he can do.
@@mizinoinovermyhead.7523 you DEFINITELY can rebuild those engines yourself. I dont know who told him he cant. You can get an entire kit where literally the only reused component is the block and head, it comes with everything from new valves, springs, seals to cylinder liners, a new totally redone crank, you reuse rods but they send pistons and rings already fitted to the liners...it really is like legos to rebuild the older diesels like that.
@@mizinoinovermyhead.7523 well if content earns money but it burns money more it doesnt really have point think logicly
@@blackopsrocks The issue is size my friend, those engines weigh as much as many cars you need a specialized hoist, and engine dolly to rebuild one, yes you can get the parts, but they are a different animal in size.
@@mizinoinovermyhead.7523 I work at a Toyota dealership and we just rebuilt 2 marine engines based on a Land Cruiser 80 diesel engine. We had to send one of the new blocks to get custom machining done, but we got it done. So I don't think that these guys can't manage if a dealership can.
Rebuild the current engines. It’s the only option that makes any sense.
^^^^^^ What he said :) ^^^^^^^^^^
Yeah rebuild and put oil P gauges with alarms. Or computer controlled if possible that would be it
Agreed. Engine swap is just stupid
totally.
Definitly, only option.
Rebuild the original Diesel engines, they’re so cool.
Stick with diesel. There are diesel turners out there.
When you are facing a large head sea for hours and hours, you will appreciate the mass and inertia of the diesels crankshaft, balancer, flywheel. Huge difference on how a big boat rides with all that weight down low in the bilge
i bet he is never going anywhere near out of his comfort zone...just sea show off and having fun with his friends...ive seen people renting a 57 beneteau just to go in 3 nearby ports to get drunk and fly back home.
I agree. Rebuild those Cummins engines and refresh their marine lives.
Well if it hasn't been said enough here is one more time--rebuild the original powerplant and show us what 40 Mph all day long looks like.
New sub from Emelia's channel! I've found, when I don't know what I don't know, that it's better to stick with what I have. Especially with aspirations to go ocean cruising, you can never have too much power, but you can definitely have too little, while you're out on the blue water. If you're going to rebuild the engines anyway, I'd put some hours on them and give them a chance to redeem themselves. You'd even pointed out that it's a solid block, and it was designed for this application. If nothing else, it buys time to really think this through and do the proper research. You might even find you like working on diesels.
Also, be very careful about automatic engine shutdowns at sea. Unlike roads, water is always moving, which means you are basically always maneuvering unless you're moored to something. A sudden engine shutdown in rough sea conditions could wreck you quickly.
REBUILD. THOSE. DAMN. ENGINES!!
There's a reason why they are there!!
I also love gasoline engines but here diesel is the one to go for in marine application!!
Rebuild the original engines!!! I wanna see her running like she’s new
Sounds to me like the Italians already did the thinking on this one! How about new turbo chargers on re-built engines. A resto-mod and the bonus is that you all get to learn about diesel engines...
Could not have said it better.
I'm a new subscriber and a retired truck driver with over 30 years on the road and driving diesels of all sizes. The right way for you to go with your classic Italian beauty, and keeping the value at top notch is STAY original!! Rebuild! There is no way those engines will ever take the abuse of a diesel powering a million mile truck, and when they get worn out, we rebuilt them, NOT replace with them with something other than what the truck came off the line at Detroit with. Who would want a Lamborghini with a Ford engine? Your new rebuilds will last another 30 years easy.
Rebuild the existing engines and learn about diesel that way.
just about all the boats I seen electric swapped sank because of little things they neglected to R&D properly like exhaust ports leaking after a few days making the ship sink in minuets. It is about the most dangerous and risky thing you can do to a sail boat that is being used for sea crossings but if you just want to cruise a river I guess that's less danger.
@Copter Cop I use voice to text tell it to google.
Copter Cop it's actually "have seen", stupid......
saltwater and high voltage electricity...i mean, what could possibly go wrong?
Chris, I really enjoy your show. I spent 6 years in the Navy. I enjoyed every minute of it. I love being on the water. That's why I really enjoy this part of your channel.
What you need to do is think about your decision to buy this boat. If, you bought the boat as an investment in fun, you really need to consider rebuilding the engines and putting them back in the boat. They were designed to be what you need to get everything you want from a boat. If you wish to go slow and not go too far, they are fairly efficient. If you wish to go fast and far, they are efficient enough for that purpose. If you intend to enjoy the boat for a while and eventually sell it, you will get the best return on your investment. I know that you like to do a lot of crazy stuff and have fun. That's part of the draw of your channel. I think that you should rebuild and reinstall these engines and get the fullest amount of fun you can out of the boat. New engines would be best for all scenarios, but I don't think that that would be cost effective and you would not get enough return on your investment to justify the expense. That's a great boat in great condition. You have done a fair amount of work on it to make it look good and function properly. I think that you should repair the original equipment and get the most fun out of that bad-ass boat as you can.
Good luck
I think the smartest move is too rebuild the Diesel that’s in there.
yes and learn everything about the Engine while you rebuild it. So you know on sea exactly whats maybe wrong
Totally agree. I'm pretty sure there's a reason nobodys electric powered more than a surfboard until now.
And eletric motors are known to be terribly inefficient in boats.
agreed
@@HRM.H but it is not as cool as putting new engines in it
Just rebuild the cummins, they were built to run and run, and most marine engines not all but most were built to stay dormant for weeks on end, my vote rebuild, and have fun.
Rebuild the existing Diesel engines. Cheapest option by far and will more than likely be the most reliable option.
yeah braaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa
Yeah but thats pretty boring and slow.. this is B is for Build Not S is for Snooze! More power!!!
@@Habdabi deisel
I ain’t telling your business, but just rebuild the diesel.
- And not trap all the crank pressure a diesel engine makes in a home made pcv system shared with the other engine...
^^^^^^ What he said :) ^^^^^^^^^^
Definitely diesel. Less $$ to fix it, more “mpg” efficient, further range, and it will be easier to sell it with the original refreshed motors
You didn't mention highly efficient common rail diesel generator electric motors? I have been wondering if that is something that would work. Although now on my slightly smaller boat I am hooked on my VM Motori 504LS.
Diesel. Why do boats, ships, buses, high-powered generators, all sorts of heavy-duty industrial and construction equipment and indestructible old Mercedes run with diesel instead of gasoline? Because they're built to last. Treat the diesel right (make sure it has oil pressure!) and it won't give you problems. Treat a gasoline engine right and it'll work most of the time, but not as long. Put a non-marine engine with automotive stuff in a boat? It'll be OK for a while.
WOW, Almost exactly what Chris said in the video. Go call a Tow Truck!
Twin Merlins like a WWII PT boat.
How’s electric not reliable??
@@IllegallyAcquiredKIA Electricity and water dont mix well
stick with the Diesel Engines ...there are Fine... AND Upgrade the Propellers... there have been much upgrades since 30 Years
Me being a 27 year marine mechanic on small and large pleasure boats be happy and just fix the one damaged engine and do yourself a favor!!!!!👍
Rebuild the engines and do a turbo upgrade and a new fuel management system.
Ye that would be the best pull both of them out full rebuild and upgrade and tune them
While the obvious answer is to rebuild the diesel, I'm glad you're still thinking outside of the box and trying to do something different. That's what made the channel, I'm not sure why folks are surprised by this.
Definitely keep the Diesel engines, one of the reasons they are so heavy is because they need weight to displace a wake on a boat and keep a boat planted
Keep her stock and rebuild the Cumminses. There must be a way to monitor them electronically.
Mike Rossum Murphy gauges , no electronics except alarms switches simple 100% reliable
Rebuild the existing engines, after a rebuild they'll last for years
like really.. why do anything else? Those engines are your best most cost effective option.
They are hard to find parts for and the parts at expensive
What about rebuilding the engines but improving them to make them more efficient like electric hybrid.
I really really wish automotive engines followed the OPs method. Like, really wish, but instead years of tweaked/paint huffing “engine builders” have made the reality factory first.
Rebuilding is the only reasonable option. Drop a couple thousand on those engines and they will last another 30 years.
Would it be feasible to build a solar charger for the Tesla batteries?
Diesels, a boat is something to enjoy and all the other options sounds like issue after issue. Keep er simple
To be fair, boats inherently are issue after issue. To your point, why make more issues to have to deal with?
I would rebuild the two original engines with higher horsepower and torque make them bulletproof and you save a ton of headaches 👍🏼👍🏼👍🏼✌🏼
And money in the long run
Rebuild yes but no need for higher horse power or torque, if anything for reliability reduction of power is an option 20 knots is desirable 40 is being an ass hole and will get you in trouble on the water. Fun on a flat lake but on a choppy sea or river will turn into a nightmare
@@connordevine9872 unless your going/leaving Columbia.......😉
@@bsxxfurballxx692 not into drugs just comfort 🤔🤔👍👍
Agreed, unless there is something dramatically wrong with the existing motors, rebuild and use the money you save for other projects....
Running a boat that size off petrol engines would be the equivalent of trying to run a car off a twisted elastic band.
what about a hybrid electric/diesel ?
Rebuild. Partner with someone who specializes in Cummins. Technology has come a long way in 30 years
In a future episode: "While Oscar is manning the oar, I'll be looking online to see where I can find an electrical outlet to plug into." Just rebuild the Cummings, mate. More capability for less cost.
For a large yacht, diesel is the only practical choice. Rebuild them.
Hey guys. I am a trucker from Ohio. The gas engine thing sounds fun. And I would love 2 big blocks belting it out across the river. But from a practical standpoint, and being a truck driver, nothing proforms like a diesel when you want something to go to work for you. And nothing is more reliable. My 2000 Mack is pushing a million miles and I run it hard. And as you said. Reliable, fuel efficient, and lower cost. I love the rumble of a V-8 but Diesel have a cool sound in there own right.
Dude rip both engines out and rebuild them. You really considering going overboard and dropping 70-100k for a weekend boat. Spend the 20k and refresh the engines.
Stick with the diesel. Why replace for something worse and more expensive?
Get those engines reconditioned, at some point you will need to sell her, authenticity is priceless.
What about a solar and wind powered charging? Also, why only two battery packs? How many can you actually add?
Well, in my opinion, they’re tried and tried diesels, they lasted 30+ years with unknown maintenance, might be worth it to rebuild the originals and keep it to the k.i.s.s. theory and let em roll for another 30+ years
just fix the diesel engine, and have the second engine fully gone through too for good measure. diesel power is good for marine for many reasons, thats why its commonplace
Rebuild the diesels and add an electric engine for low-speed cruising. Make it a hybrid! (Bonus points if the diesels can be used for charging the batteries).
I was thinking the same thing! that would be really cool.
Best idea
If he's looking to do something unique for his channel I think you're idea is an excellent one. My only concern would be weight with the heavy diesel engines and a battery large enough to have any practical range between recharges.
Did you seal off the crankcase vents? Didn’t see any return line from your catchcan.
Rebuild all the way. Diesels are bulletproof for the most part.
So bulletproof the video is about a broken one!
The 'first boat learning curve' is HUGE ! Best advice I can give is "it was built exactly that way for a reason ... don't change anything. Even the silicone you use must be marine grade (3M 4200/5200 for example). Marine parts don't just say they are marine, they are marine.
Hire a professional NOW to asses the situation. Leave the good engine alone unless you have a good reason to do otherwise. The bad engine must have a accurate failure diagnosis but could very possibly be repaired in the boat. Highway trucks for example can get a "in-frame overhaul" which is a complete rebuild without removing the crankshaft from the block.
There is nothing half assed about leaving the good engine alone unless it has ungodly hours on it.
Did I mention hire a professional?
Boats are easy to drive? Don't let your insurance guy hear you say that...
Highway trucks can be in-framed because there's room under the engine to pull the oil pan and remove rod caps. Boats make that a no go because engine is against the hull. Only top end work in place.
Rebuild the old engine's or go with new diesel engine's. Much more reliable.
903s are hard to find parts for, even for dealers and distributors. Best option if you don't want to go to a Cummins dealer, contact a local plant or large facility with old fire suppression systems. A lot of them were 903 powered and they may have a source for parts. Have fun!!
Pay to get the diesel repaired. The resell value would pay off.
resale*
Rebuild the engine. The fun will come from modifying them. I'm sure you can play with boost. Also get some input from deboss garage
D is for Diesel. Rebuild or explore a hybrid option via diesel generator.
electro-diesel is a good idea. a couple of tesla motors and battery packs and a big diesel generator, sorta like a shrunk locomotive.
Sure, most locomotives are diesel electric hybrids and the hybrids have been making their way to marine use, too, large cruise ships and all the way to submarines. You wouldn't have the getting stranded problem and you would get the benefit of cheap diesel and quick refuelling.
I like that idea of hybrid
@@ghomerhust Don't comment on a topic you don't know, aka they don't use batteries as that would kill them (think about charging and discharging at the same time at a high rate = battery death). They use the gen power straight to power motors (no battery) and onboard power use. While I would love somebody to try this out on a small scale (used in the new aircraft carrier QE class, new cruise ships) it would cost too much to make/develop the support and management systems (millions of dollars) for a proper install and not enough space on the boat - unless they made a getto system that would work like crap.
Just a quick question, do you think the catch cans that you put in caused any issues? Were they vented or sealed?
This boat isn’t worth doing any thing but rebuilding the current engines.
you might be forgetting that he is paid to work on stuff and an engine swap would make a lot of content opportunities
@@jacobdavis787 still be just as much fun if he did some upgrades and B is for Build = Rebuild still has build in it. I would watch it
Idk with all the storms that just went through the gulf. You can get a better boat is all I’m saying.
Theres no way I would buy a 30 year old 40ft fiberglass boat. My 20 year old 21ft boat had rot, im 2 years into a full rebuild
Nothing wrong with an old boat. As long as you get it from an American manufacturer. Just repowered an older (early 90’s)scarborough there was no rot anywhere on the boat.
Rebuild yours, increase boost if additional power is demanded.
That's...not how that works. More boost requires more fuel. More fuel requires bigger injectors and more fuel pressure. Not the simplest thing to accomplish on ~30 year old diesels that are out of production.
High power diesel!
Increasing fuel for additional boost is very simple on a mechanical pump diesel. Even if his engines are a newer style electric over hydraulic injection, most systems are capable of doing 150% of the engine’s maximum fuel requirements.
Twin, built, compound boosted OM606s
From a boat owner, I would love to see a high powered gas swap because I would NEVER do it, but from a standpoint of what you SHOULD do its rebuild those engines.
Would be cool to see the boat gas powered and with everything we have missed this year with COVID-19 it gives all of us on the channel something to look forward to at the single seater got pushed back .
great video! question, when you looked at electric, did you recalculate performance eliminating 2 super heavy engines and huge fuel tank, and the engines related stuff, exhaust fan, transmission, etc... So, very cool video and thinking out of the box!