The Repower Vs The Overhaul Pt. Two
The Overhaul
Sometimes an engine overhaul makes more sense than a re-power. There are basic questions that you should ask yourself before you decide on a big re-power vs. overhaul project.
Here are some guidelines for deciding on an overhaul.
How much are you willing to spend?
What is your timeframe?
How much change can you handle?
Can you put up with the debugging process?
The actual cost of an overhaul vs. a re-power is probably the major factor that determines the customer’s direction when performing engine or boat refits. But there are hidden “costs” associated with a re-power that need to be taken into consideration. Unlike a re-power, an engine overhaul can be done without removing the engines. This operation saves the boat from what some may consider a desecration of their pride and joy. Also, you may miss a fishing tournament or a holiday while your boat is in the yard getting re-powered. Normally a vessel in the 45-65’ range may take several months to perform. An overhaul will take much less time, meaning weeks vs months without a boat.
A typical V-12 engine can be overhauled in three weeks or less. There is always some time lost due to weekends, machining exercises and ordering miscellaneous parts. A double overhaul usually is done in 1.5 times (not twice) the single overhaul because of overlapping work operations. For example, boat preparation/protection only needs to be done once regardless of how many engines are getting overhauled. In some instances the engines don’t need to be lifted or disconnected from the stringers so that saves labor.
Many people don’t embrace change as easily as others. Because of this they don’t want to change the fundamental look or function of their boat and/or engine room. They are perfectly happy with the performance, economy and function of their existing engines. The engine overhaul is a good compromise for people who want new engine performance and reliability without fundamental changes to the boat.
Many times there are a lot of items that need to be changed on a boat during a re-power, there is a “teething” process that occurs. The equipment will be different, relearning the boat with new controls; new engines and new transmissions will mean there is a learning curve also known as “debugging”. With an engine overhaul there isn’t as much chance of this because you are working with the same equipment.
The best way to approach the re-power vs. overhaul question is to make a budget, create your own personal pro vs. con chart and do your research. Most importantly, make it fun! It’s a part of boating that can turn from terrifying to very rewarding!
For a Overhaul vs. Re-power Consultation
3786 SW 30th Ave
Ft. Lauderdale, FL 33331
888-584-7668
Email Rob Scott
©2016 Scott Marine Power, Inc. All Rights Reserved