Bertram33 User Forum

George, That's great that you're getting that much use. Shoot at 120 hours, you've probably already saved $2K to $4K in fuel money alone. I've been saying the same as you that 300-330 diesel hp (meaning light weight diesels and not a big honk'in set of Cats) is a perfect setup for these boats (at least for how I could and do use it). Just for reference, what gears and prop size are you running? Regards, Doug L. 1986 33 Bertram FBC Queen Elizabeth Marblehead, MA [img]http://www.bertram33.com/photogallery/p ... sabeth.jpg[/img]

Doug, I am beginning to agree with you on the gas-diesel conversation we had yesterday. 1979 Bertram 33' FBC ALEXANDRA Port Richey, Florida [img]http://www.bertram33.com/photogallery/p ... xandra.jpg[/img] HAVE YOU SIGNED UP FOR BERTRAM PRIDE '06 yet? DO IT NOW... SPACE IS LIMITED!

George, I must say you are not making an accurate statement in saying diesels are much better at handling the extra load than gassers in our boats.I would have to say when i switched from tired 454 mercs to fresh 496 crusaders.The difference was huge as well. My boat just jumps on plane with no effort .It does not matter if i am loaded or empty.I can cruise 22-24 and top out at 30 knots.Would i rather have your fuel economy? of course. I am really glad you are enjoying your new power.You feel like i do as far as it is a new ride with fresh power.

Fair enough. All I can go by is my experience with my gassers which were not at all "tired" but clearly struggled with a big load. Loaded is of course a relative term.

I would like to have a ride in some of these boats with new power, gas or diesel. I haven't had a chance to experience it but I would not say that my boat with the original mercs is slow to get onto plane, loaded or not.In fact I would consider it's performance rather spritely , considering the weight of it, with the exception of riding up the back of a large wave. My issue is fuel consumption at 20+ knots and the fact that I feel like I'm beating the bag out of it at that speed.Maybe the fact that I have the lower gears and larger diameter props helps. It must be pretty impressive to feel all that extra power.

Frank, Your welcome to go for a ride anytime! I'm just sorry we didn't get you out when we were all at the Vineyard. If any of the Boston group is going to the Norwalk boat show, Guilford is right off I-95 on the way. Let me know. Brian '90 Bertram 33' FBC Never Say Never Guilford, CT (Homeport) Kinnelon, NJ (Home)

Thanks Brian, One of these days I'm sure we'll connect and I'll insist on a ride.