Inboard Diesel Jackshafted Vs. Twins on a Seamark

[kerneltugboat]

Snookered,

I can tell you from experience, putting in a Jackshafted Diesel is an expensive proposition, but in the long run I think it will pay off. My engine alone was in the 30K area,(D6-350). Mine is a 27 and is almost done. I had an inboard 454, with no pocket, but the hull was cut flat with a 24" PAD. I ended up installing new Stringers for the Engine mounts, and beefed up the original Seacraft stringers as well. My boat is still at the glass shop, a 2 week Paint job has turned into a 2 month Gelcoat Job. I am hoping to splash her by Labor day in time for Tuna. Then I can let you know if it was worth it. If I had a 23 inboard, and the pocket was glassed over and the Engine mounts were good, and the fuel tanks were ok, then I would drop in a VP D3 Jackshafted to a Composite or Aluminum DP drive.It is an awesome little package that weighs about 720 lbs (+ the shaft weight)maybe another 80 pounds. I think you would be looking at 30 Knots top end, cruise at 25 and get better than 5 MPG, that is just a guess from everything I have read.

Good Luck !!!