Survey Results

[texpie]

Results of a survey on a 98 Manta 40 we currently have under contract.
Starboard and port engines were Volvo model# MD2030B. Recently the port sail drive was replaced with a Model 130SB and gear ratio 2:4. The starboard sail drive is probably original to the boat and was a Model 120SD with a gear ratio of 2:9. The sail drives were fitted with 2-blade folding props.

Has anyone else seen 2 sail drives on the same boat with differences in the gear reduction ratio? This may not amount to anything significant but I was curious any possible problems. I could not feel any difference at the helm but the rpms at the props would be different due to the different ratio's. The props diameter and pitch were the same.

Any thoughts or concerns?

Thanks

[Factor]

I wouldn't sweat it, you won't be using both engines a lot anyway, most cats go 80% of speed on one alone (approx) The only reason to use both is manoeuvring in marinas etc and in bar crossings and the like, I really dont think it will make much difference to you.

[TurninTurtle]

With different gear ratios they should have different pitch props, and that could balance the thrust pretty well.

As above, for most purposes, it would at worst mean not having both throttles at the same setting to make the boat track straight without having to hold significant rudder.
Full power on both could be quite a hand-full if they didn't compensate with the props.