Gemini 105mc conversion Deisel to gas??

[valhalla360]

Originally Posted by Drmanso

How about installing 2 Outboards such as the 9.9 Yamahas?
The redundant power should be more reliable than a single diesel, they will weigh less also and will enhance the maneuverability and resale value.
I'm about to buy a cat and really like the Gems, but Im leaning toward a PDQ 36 because it has 2 outboards.

For a year or two they offered that on the 105 but it was two motors on the same bucket so, it quickly got dropped. Not sure what they were thinking. It was the worst of all worlds.

A few have retrofitted two outboards on the back of the bridge deck but they are only about 6' apart. So some of the benefits of twin engine but not as powerful an effect as you might think.

But more importantly, with the outboard (or sterndrive) able to turn with rudders, you would be amazed how maneuverable the boat is once you learn to use it. The trick is you have to learn it. It's not like any other configuration.
- It's not like a small outboard powered boat as the rudders will overwhelm the outboard turning if you have a bit of speed.
- It's not like an single inboard powered boat because at low speed the outboard can push the stern side to side.
- It's not like twin inboard.

You need to learn to watch for the break point in speed when the rudders or the outboard control turning. Also, having one of the boards down a bit creates a pivot point. With both boards up, she will slide sideways and be drastically harder to control.

We would take our Gemini into tight spots we would never consider taking out twin inboard power boat.

There is a better approach to redundancy:
- Properly maintained, modern outboards are very reliable. With nothing more the filter/oil changes, ours was trouble free for almost 10yrs until we sold the boat.
- If you are on open water and there is a breeze, you can sail.
- If you are becalmed or in restricted water, we had a motor mount on the stern that held the dingy outboard. It was one of the spring loaded jobs that drops it into the water in 2 seconds. You won't go fast but you can continue under your own power.