Cape Dory 28 fly RE Power

[Mike82]

Hey guys, Long time lurker, looking at a project boat.. I found a cape dory that is solid but needs new engine and trans. I am not familiar with these but they seem to be semi displacement hulls. My intended use would be for overnighting off shore and trolling. I know they mostly came with 100 hp diesels and later some 200 hp options. I had in mind putting a Beta 50 in it and just running it like a trawler at 8-9 kts. Does this throw up any red flags or does this sound feasible. I have also been considering the same idea with one of the ranger r21 boats. Im mainly looking for cheap to operate ,and dry spot to camp on overnight trips.

[SailingHarmonie]

If you mean this boat. CDSOA, Inc. -- CD28 Power

It lists standard power as a 275HP V8 gas engine and cruising speed of 14 knots.

I think you’d be unhappy with only 50 hp.

[rslifkin]

I'd probably go a little bigger than 50hp, although if you're planning just displacement speed cruising you won't need a huge engine. I would expect 8 - 9 kts will be WOT (if you can even get to that speed) with only 50hp, as hull speed on that boat is only about 6.8 kts (waterline is just shy of 26 feet).

The gas models did have a decent bit of power as mentioned, but diesels were either 100 or 200hp depending on year and options. The 100hp models were definitely a bit on the slow side, but would still at least get a little past hull speed.

The bigger Beta options like the 85T would probably be better suited in my mind if you want a small, low powered engine, as the hull will certainly be capable of using the extra power.

[Mike82]

yes where I live and fish out of its about a 3 mile run until i drop some lures back in a spread. Being able to go out and fish for the weekend and not burning more than 100 bucks worth of gas is whats got my wheels turning on this. My Last boat was a sea ray AJ that would eat you out of house and home and was miserable on anchor or floating overnight.. which led me to take out less than i would have liked.