Which type engine is best for you, gas or diesel?
by Captain Tom Martin
Choosing between a diesel or gas engine for your sail or motorboat can be a tough decision. Here are a few things to consider.
An auxiliary diesel engine
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Recently I had a conversation with another boater; it started when he mentioned rebuilding his Atomic Four gas engine. I was a bit surprised, why rebuild? "It is a good little engine and diesel re-powering is too expensive" he replied. He makes a good point, yet some years ago when faced with the same question I went with diesel.
There really isn't any controversy about gas versus diesel because each person's choice is usually based on their needs and budget. What I'd like to here is discuss some of the priorities we should consider when choosing one type of engine over the other. If you have some experiences you like to share please post them on the yacht club forum.
A long block engine
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Issues That Come to Mind
SAFETY FIRST: Diesels do not explode, yet a careful gas engine operator need only follow some simple rules to be totally safe.
DEPENDABILITY: My Atomic Four and many of the gas inboard and outboards I've ran over the years have been dependable when maintained. Neglect them for even a brief period and you do so at your own risk.
Diesel engines are a bit more forgiving when it comes to neglect. As a Captain doing deliveries, I've found that gas engines have failed far more times and the cause is usually neglect and poor maintenance.
MAINTENANCE: Hands down, the diesels I have worked with have been easier and cheaper to maintain. No plugs, points, carburetor! The exhaust system in a diesel is far simpler. Bad fuel will do damage to either, while while I'm not sure which one will cost more to repair.
PERFORMANCE: Inboard gas and diesel can be compared in the same hull while outboard gas stands by itself. In my experience with a Trojan 39 express cruiser, the diesel version out performed the gas in speed, range and fuel economy. Diesel was noisier at idle. It has been pretty much the same for Carvers, and Sea Rays that I have driven. All things being equal the diesel wins.
COST: Yes Diesel engines are more expensive than gasoline. Yet lower maintenance cost and fuel economy might balance it out over time.
CONCLUSIONS: Sounds like diesel wins out? But let's factor in use. If you're a lake boater up north and the boat spends winters in storage, gas makes sense. If you're fishing, day tripping, short distance cruiser on relatively small boats that spend time on a trailer or high and dry gas makes sense. If you're a hot rod racer doing a 100 mph plus, go with gas. Sailboats, medium size cruisers, big sport fisherman where speed and range are important diesel is the answer.
Bottom Line: How you use your boat and its size are factors that will determine what type of engine makes sense for you.
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