Hi!
Has anyone tried diesel engines in his speedboat?What kind of experiences have you had?Have you used surcacedrives or sterndrives.I have been considering to install in Fountain Lightning 38 Cummins 350 hp diesel engines with sterndrives.Fuel expenses are so high and go for sure upwards.

I believe "Banks power company" (diesel computer programmer, exhaust, etc. etc.)) is currently working on a diesel motor package with high HP for boats.

Have had many diesel speed/race boats going back to the mid-80's. Worked with Fountain on a single diesel engine fishboat many years ago as well. I'll answer questions as best I can.

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Last time I filled my diesel truck is was $3.59 a gal. Regular gas is $2.99 here. A diesel does better in mileage but I fail to see the savings with the expense of switching over and having to pay .60 gal more for fuel.

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Diesel is cheaper on the water up here in Connecticut because there is no road tax, so the savings really is considerable. Factor in the increased longevity, higher cruising speeds, etc., and the diesel option is one that is going to get a lot more looks across the board. I predict that several years from now, gasoline-powered engines are going to be in the minority compared to diesel. We have been seeing the switch to diesel for several years now.

Tom
Total Marine

saw a 42 fountain rigged with twins with surface drives a couple of years ago.

I want to move to diesel's as well. I don't need to go 100mph, I'd rather have an efficient 65mph cruise speed, unsurpassed durability and a broader nautical cruising range on a tank of fuel.

I am waiting for the technology to get there and my current stock power is still young in hours but once it is time to repower I like the diesels.