Going 'Kinda' Solar / Renewable for Auxiliary Power

[Eleven]

The real option is a second small diesel engine, even outboard style, just to provide slow motion economically.
On my Cat, originally 27HP now 43 that gives me more than hull speed, or rather doesn't.
But a 5hp diesel would be really useful for plodding through a lull, just keeping steerage way for the auto-pilot, or charging the batteries during the night.
It's such a problem I'm considering a PETROL genny just to maintain lights and auto-p on the dark and shorter days of winter cruises.
Is there no viable diesel electric low power convertion unit besides a second hand car engine? There is a diesel quad bike 20hp, maybe skid-doo's already have the ideal diesel engine, light in weight, decent consumption, reliable starting. Life expectancy isn't relevant for sailing people?

[Maren]

Originally Posted by Eleven

Is there no viable diesel electric low power convertion unit besides a second hand car engine?

There is, or rather was and will be again. But not yet.