1962 Hatteras 34 repower

[SRP]

Hey all, I have a 1962 Hatteras 34 S/N 34-SC-032 that I have owned for about 3 1/2 years now that I'm considering repowering with Yanmar diesels. Currently it's powered by a pair of Chriscraft 350s (I'm told by a previous owner these are not strictly stock and obviously not the original engines) I couldn't begin to guess the horse power. Originally they would have been Chrysler engines either 210 or 280 hp from what I can find on the internet. All that said I read a bit on other repower projects on similar size boats and it looks like Yanmar 4lv170/4lv195/4lv230 would all be viable options for repower. Taking into account the usual considerations (weight, dimensions, access for service, exhaust tubing size, engine bay ventilation and prop clearance as I would likely need to bump up a bit) I saw hull type should also be factored in. I'm guessing by the shape of the hull I have a semi-displacement hull but I wouldn't mind a second opinion on that.Following the repower project I am thinking a tasteful update to the interior that doesn't completely alienate the original style. Mostly I'm concerned with reliability, efficiency and usability out of this project. I would love any opinions or advice if any of you have done a repower on a boat of this size.

 

[madhatter1]

Being a Cummins fan that is what I would normally reccomend. But the earlier 34's has a few inches less ER height. Also the Yanmars spin at higher RPM's so possibly shaft size is more compatible. If you love the boat (we do) its a worthwhile adventure. If looking at it from an investment standpoint, hookers and blow have a greater ROI. We did ours in 98 and still own it. So worth it. Do all this and sell in a few years and the hookers and blow is the front runner.

That said the Diesels change the personality of the boat by a great deal. Fuel burn is half. Cruise speed higher. YMMV.

Forgot to add that the 34 has an awesome ER (for it's size) with plenty of room to work on (maintain) the engines.

 

[SRP]

Not really considering it an investment in a monetary sense so my ROI will strictly be years of enjoyment, but yeah its a lot like my other habits (no not hookers and blow) with no financial return. Reliability, efficiency and performance will do quite nicely.

 

[madhatter1]

Then go for it. If you’re in for years of enjoyment the boat will pay high dividends.

 

[madhatter1]

So have you started down the rabbit hole yet? Just curious and hoping for success.