[Walker]

As many of you know, the EPA is going to mandate E-15 as the new standard by 2017, (source BoatUS), and it occurred to me that I should consider converting my 8.1 Crusader powered 3200 Open to Diesel rather than buying an entirely new boat. It's gotta be less expensive than selling and buying similar model with diesel.
Does anyone know what would be involved, about how much to expect and has it ever been done?

It may be an off the wall question but I'll never know if I don't ask.
Thanks
Walker

[trit21]

I have heard of some doing this and the price was in the range of $100k to do it correctly. new engines, new trans, new generator, new wiring, probably new shaft, struts (depends on what Tiara put on the gas vs diesel) new gauges, new exhaust, new seacocks and strainers, it really is a huge project. Most people will say that it is much cheaper to sell and buy one with diesels already. Maybe someone on here has done it and will chime in as well. 

[Walker]

I have heard of some doing this and the price was in the range of $100k to do it correctly. new engines, new trans, new generator, new wiring, probably new shaft, struts (depends on what Tiara put on the gas vs diesel) new gauges, new exhaust, new seacocks and strainers, it really is a huge project. Most people will say that it is much cheaper to sell and buy one with diesels already. Maybe someone on here has done it and will chime in as well. 

Trit21
Thanks for the reply. It seems to be more involved than I'm willing to manage. I may just give selling more thought.
Thanks again.
Walker

[NYMarine1]

I have 8.1s in my '03 35 open and the thought has crossed my mind that my only option when they pass on is a diesel conversion as the 8.1 long block is no longer manufactured (to the best of my knowledge).

I researched prices for a diesel conversion and economically it def seems to be a better choice to sell the boat, at least for my year and model, which is depressing.

Al Grover's on Long Island does a ton of diesel conversions.  We looked at a 31' Tiara repowered with Yanmars prior to purchasing the 35 and the receipts for the conversion far exceeded the value of the boat (100K+): removing old engines, cleaning/repainting the bilge, new motor mounts, new shafts/struts/wheels, tank conversion, controls/elecs...and the actual engines themselves..LABOR.

I imagine the cost for repowering my 35 with cummins would be close to $130K.  I have 900 hrs on my 8.1s and hope to get another 300-400. 

By that time, I think trit21 is going to want to buy a new 43 Open and sell me his 35 with diesels w/ice blue hull and gas strut stairs.

Just some thoughts.

[Walker]

Thanks for the input. I guess I'll look into a newer purchase with diesels.
Thanks for the input.

[sbw1]

Not hearing much talk of e15 here in West Michigan. Most marinas from Holland Michigan to Macinaw City sell gasoline with no ethanol in it. We also have many gas stations that sell alcohol free gas.