Capt. Mark East’s Advice to the Careworn, Confused, Lovelorn and Other Outdoor People
Dear Captain East,
I happen to own and have enjoyed a 26' Downeast style boat for many years. In my later years now I find that I need to replace the gas engine and wanted to put in a diesel. However, with the cost and all and my few remaining years I want to consider removing the drive shaft and going with an outboard motor. What are your thoughts. My wife is a bit dubious.
Signed,
Old Motorchanger
Dear Old Motorchanger,
As much as I am attached to inboard engines, I think it could be a good idea for you. The new four-cycle outboards are amazing if not complicated. Quiet, dependable, and economical. As you may already know, you'll have to have the yard do a bit more glass work than just filling the shaft hole. There's the rudder to consider, and I would seriously consider cutting back the deadwood at an angle and rounding it back for easier steering and better water flow to the new propellor(s). Understand as well there will be different steering characteristics with the Outboard's rudder and thrust at the very stern. Will you keep your engine box to store gear for old time's sake?
Dear Capt. Mark,
I really enjoy your column. Perhaps You can help me. My father died a few years ago and my brother and I are having an argument. Dad collected old outboard motors and worked at getting them or keeping them running. My brother says they're worthless and we should take them to the dump. I disagree. What should we do??
Signed,
Antique Perplexed
Dear Antique Perplexed,
You are just about giving me “heart arrest”, one who grew up wrapping a pull cord around the flywheels of many a classic. These could be priceless to collectors and museums. You even see them occasionally hanging on the walls of “Cracker Barrel” restaurants. I'm not sure they're worth a lot of money, but you must at least call the Shelburne Museum in Vermont or look on E-bay. Please do not “take them to the dump”. I beg you.
Capt. Mark can be reached at
capmarke@gmail.com