Listmates,
The Yanmar 3GM on my 1990 Beneteau Moorings 38 has seized. Without removing the engine and completely disassembling it, it is impossible to tell how bad the situation really is. My mechanic is suggesting a switch to electric, specifically an Electric Yacht QT10. That’s not awful, but EY is suggesting no less than three Epoch 48v 100 ah batteries at a cost of $2k a piece (they really recommend four such batteries and have even had the gall to suggest four Dakota 48 v 96 ah batteries at a mere $2.5 k each). Ouch.
Has anyone made the transition from diesel to electric? I’d welcome thoughts and experience, especially on the number of batteries and manufacturers.
Thanks.
Mike
Michael B. Shapiro
S/V My Funny Valentine
Beneteau Mooringd 38 #17
Lake Lanier, Georgia
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On Jun 27, 2024, at 9:08 AM, michaelbshapiro <michael...@gmail.com> wrote:
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Calculate the total energy capacity of the battery in watt-hours (Wh):
Convert watt-hours to horsepower-hours:
Therefore, a 48V 100Ah battery contains approximately 6.44 horsepower-hours of energy
'Nuff said?
I looked at this some more and searched for reviews. I found this: Switched to Electric | Sailing Anarchy Forums
I also asked my favourite AI tools and am more positive about the idea.
An option we forget is the possibility of a hybrid system, using
either the built-in generator or a portable on deck. That could
reduce the initial battery investment, allowing us to build
incrementally, starting with the minimum and adding more storage
later if needed.
It appears that for some sorts of sailors who don't go far, motor much, or have to get anywhere on time, electric is a viable solution.
Also the available sunlight and surface area available for solar could be a factor as well as the sort of seas encountered. Walk-on solar is available as well as a variety of panel configurations for bimini or arch mounting.
Diesels have more power for pushing against heavy chop or strong
currents. Is that a consideration?
Savings on fuel, reduced maintenance, and oil changes are a
payback, BUT, are your power charges at dock reasonable? Marinas
typically mark up electricity considerably.
The 38 is over length and over displacement according to the recommendations for the drive, but I would not rule it out without meeting sailors who have had one for a year or more.
Ask Copilot or Perplexity for references to electric conversion discussions.
As for LiFePO4 batteries, some are pretty cheap -- and good, but you need to do homework. Also, I understand that some insurers won't touch boats with lithium batteries, so ask.
That said, for my Oceanis 351 in sunny Mexico, this could be an option someday.
We have to remember, though, that this technology is changing
fast, so the best choice today may look obsolete tomorrow and
prices may drop.
1990 Beneteau Moorings 38