Is it possible to install an inboard motor into a sailboat that doesn't have one?

Question

I have a C&C Redline 25' sailboat. It has a tiller and an outboard kicker on the port side. I am wondering if it is possible to install a motor underneath the transom floor ( there is room ) and drill a thru-hull for a shaft so that i could eliminate the outboard kicker that throws my boat off balance? If this is possible, how would I go about do this? Any websites? Phone nums? Etc..? I am able to send pictures if anyone needs more information.

Best regards,

Josh

Answer 1

It is absolutely possible! ... check with Yanmar or Westerbeke

about what it will take. You can probably get away with about a 10 hp 1 cyl diesel.

http://www.westerbeke.com/products/diese...

http://www.yanmarmarine.com/

there are others .. but these are both good marine power companies.

Answer 2

I can't recall if the rudder on the redline extends past the transom or not so I've got a couple of suggestions for you.

If the rudder doesn't extend past the transom, simply move the outboard engine mount to the centerline to balance the boat.  If you can't move the engine mount, you can counterbalance the engine by moving most of your extra gear to the starboard lockers.  Both of these ideas are infinitely cheaper and easier than installing an inboard.

If you really do want to go inboard, Yanmar's 1GM is the rig for you.  It's a 8-10 hp single cylinder diesel (don't get gas) that will work ideally in a boat like yours.  It won't be cheap though. If you do it carefully, you might do the entire install for about $15,000... if you're reeeeeeeellllly careful.

Answer 3

It's possible But have you considered the PROP DRAG????

Answer 4

Depends how the bottom is configured for the strut & stuffing box to line up with the trans>See if they made the boat for a inboard>With the engine on 1 side put lead counter weight on the other side  for balance> Much less money>>

Answer 5

First. This may cost more than the boat worth. May be easier to sell what you have and buy a boat with an inboard.

It can be done. But, I not say it easy. Look at other C&C Sailboat layouts that have the engine. I will try to give some links.

If you enter the Cabin from Center of cockpit, the engine is most times mounted just behind your stairs. You have engine, transmission, drive shaft and "Stuffing Box" then propeller. Then all mounted stuff in your cockpit, shifter, key and throttle.

I not sure how familiar you are with Stuffing Box, most of the other we should understand. Stuffing box seals outside from inside (Water).

Here a boat diagram. See where the engine located. In reality it under and behind the stairs from cockpit to salon.

http://www.boat-links.com/Atkinco/Sail/E...

The stuffing box is where the propeller shaft goes through the hull. This the best I can do.

Now if you understand that. How about Electric. Mount a Trolling motor lower unit. Get largest possible. Cut the Shaft and mount under and in front of the Tiller. Extend the wires to the cockpit with the Head unit controls. The trolling lower unit mounted solid like the inboard engine. Only you may not have to go through the hull. It not be the fastest thing in the world. Also, you can experiment with larger electric motors. Just keep them water proof,