I have a little envy of diesel boats as I have a 36 with atomic four and a reversing gear that has been a challenge for two years. I've found the issue after working with a local mechanic, but it looks like it will require the engine to be pulled to fully correct. At least I have learned to dock and pick up moorings well, but it is not recommended.
We may have a workaround shortly, but it has made me think of moving to something like a used 30GM Yanmar. Besides cost and my interest to spend on sails instead, my other hesitancy is noise and vibration. I sail on Lake Lanier in Georgia, so fuel efficiency is not a concern as I can't travel all that far. The atomic four is pretty pleasant to cruise on a windless day, and I wonder how much louder and more vibration a diesel would bring. Bailey White 1979 C&C 36 Atlanta, GA
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