25ft Skagit

[Karl]

I'm looking for some advice.

Last summer, I bought a 1960 25' Skagit from Marty. Bare bones. It is missing the engine and running gear. I original thoughts were to convert it to an outboard. That model was produced as both inboard and outboard.

I know next to nothing about engines.

So now, I'm having second thoughts. If I were to drop a engine into the hull, what would your suggest? Gas, Diesal, size? Any suggestions on where to get that done? And a guesstimate on how much a total re-install would cost?

Thanks,

Karl

[skagit 25]

Hi Karl,

I have a running 25 Express with an Interceptor 312 V8 producing 215 HP. With a 14x8 prop the 25' will cruise at 20-22 MPH. I have reached 28 MPH (with 5 adults.) The 312 is original to the boat so I don't push it too hard.

If I had to repower I would probably go with a bigger engine with more HP. I would like to have the ability to get 30+ without maxing out the motor. I do get passed by most comparable sized modern/lighter vessels. I am not sure if there is a diminishing return in regard to power for the size/weight/design of the 25'.

I really enjoy my 25' and would enjoy seeing pics of your restoration.

[Helmar]

I have a 24 foot Fiberform with the 302 ford and omc outdrive.

Looking around at "Donor" boats, anything in the small block could go right in that, as........I looked at it before he sold it.

Me, I would look for some crap boat (I didn't say bayliner either) that someone has dumped a bunch of money iin the engine and out drive but the boat and upholstery are shot....
Lots of them around too ;-)

Just my :TwoCents1:

[Marty Loken (Norseboater)]

Inboard Vs. Outboard

Karl -

I'm guessing that if you went with the outboard approach you'd likely buy twins (two 115's, two 150's or some such), and you could spent way more than if you stuck with a straight-shaft inboard.

Used inboard engines tend to cost less than reliable newer outboards, and the Skagit 25 is already set up for inboard power with the shaftlog, strut, rudder, etc. You've got enough room under that cockpit deck to plant the biggest V-8 you could imagine using, but a straightforward GM 350 Small Block would give you plenty of power...and it's the most common used V-8 you'll see on the market.

Besides shopping CL, you might check with some of the used marine-hardware stores such as Dunato's Second Wave in Seattle, since they get a lot of take-out engines, gearboxes, running gear, gauge clusters, controls and other parts you might need.

If money was no object, a couple of new four-strokes would be sweet on the back of your 25, but you'd need to sell your house in order to buy them...and your wife might have other thoughts on that score.

- Marty