Gas or electric?

[dominoMarie]

We are considering outfitting DOMINO's dinghy with an electric engine (Torgeedo) vs. a regular gasoline outboard engine (Honda/Mercury 4-stoke). Anybody using the electric motor? Pros and cons? Thanks -DM DOMINO 20

[Exocet]

I do not have an electric motor, but the pro's and con's
Electric Pro's: Quiter, greener, somewhat lighter?
Con's: The battery (need for charging)

[dominoMarie]

Sure, I figured that out. But, specifically, is anyone using electric engine, specifically the Torgeedo brand sold by West Marine, or any other? If so, is the Electric engine used as a sole engine or as an alternative to a gasoline engine? For short runs, it might be nice and lighter. But for long runs, a gas engine might be safer.

[Colorado Dreamer]

How do you plan on using your dinghy mostly? What type of cruising do you do?

For what it is worth, electric outboards are no more "green" then a 2 or 4 stroke outboard. So if that is your only consideration, I would stick with gas. Making a battery is a terribly toxic proposition.

Do you have solar? How would you charge the battery? If you have to run your diesel to charge the battery are you saving anything?

Just things to think about.

No used 2-strokes where you live? Parts and mechanics are easy to find for those...and easy to do yourself if you get the service manual.

[dominoMarie]

This is for our live-aboard, 20-meter motor catamaran. The engine will be running an hour-a-day minimum anyways: good time to charge the battery. We have 2 dinghies, actually: a bigger one and a smaller one (row-boat). You make a good point about 2-stroke engines, though. Food for thought, thank you.