lo all,
I first just sent this to poledriver@msn.com, but I guess it is time to send
it to the list. There are real, valid concerns with electronically controlled
engines, especially when cruising in far away places. The complexity will
probably drive the cost up to the point where these engines are not
affordable for our little boats - from both a purchase and maintenance
standpoint. I used to enjoy fixing my cars and trucks, but I can't any more.
If my car or truck dies, it is an inconvenience, if my boat engine(s) die -
that could be a catastrophe. I believe that is a valid concern.
<<
Some recent posts have energized the usual scare tactics that produce
visions of you and your boat adrift for days or perilously close to the
rocks without power. Well bullshit. >>
<<From: Albin43Tr@aol.com
Date: Sun Dec 31 2000 - 19:59:10 EST
///Part snipped out///
I am leary of too much advanced integrated technology on my boat, especially
when it could impact safety. Possibly, that is just an excuse to stick with
old tried and true (and cheaper) systems, but I have also had my own
experience with extremely complex technological equipment that only the
military could dream up and afford. Some good, some bad, but the thought
always persists .... what if this system fails .... what is the probable
result? Would it/could it put something, someone or even me in danger? (I was
a test engineer.)
A BIG brand-new Hatteras was being delivered to its new owners and was
passing through the Florida Panhandle area. The electronic engine controls on
both engines malfunctioned and shut down the engines just as the boat was
passing Cape San Blas (probably the most dangerous spot in this area during
stormy weather, which it was then). There were no manual/redundant engine
controls, and the crew was at a loss as how to troubleshoot the problem
quickly, so they threw out the anchor and awaited a tow. There was some fear
that the boat would be destroyed on the shoals, but it was towed to safety. I
was told that the new owner flatly rejected the boat because of this
experience.
///remainder snipped///
Nuff said....
Wayne
M/V Celestial
Albin 43 Sundeck
lo all,
I first just sent this to poledriver@msn.com, but I guess it is time to send
it to the list. There are real, valid concerns with electronically controlled
engines, especially when cruising in far away places. The complexity will
probably drive the cost up to the point where these engines are not
affordable for our little boats - from both a purchase and maintenance
standpoint. I used to enjoy fixing my cars and trucks, but I can't any more.
If my car or truck dies, it is an inconvenience, if my boat engine(s) die -
that could be a catastrophe. I believe that is a valid concern.
<<
Some recent posts have energized the usual scare tactics that produce
visions of you and your boat adrift for days or perilously close to the
rocks without power. Well bullshit. >>
<<From: Albin43Tr@aol.com
Date: Sun Dec 31 2000 - 19:59:10 EST
///Part snipped out///
I am leary of too much advanced integrated technology on my boat, especially
when it could impact safety. Possibly, that is just an excuse to stick with
old tried and true (and cheaper) systems, but I have also had my own
experience with extremely complex technological equipment that only the
military could dream up and afford. Some good, some bad, but the thought
always persists .... what if this system fails .... what is the probable
result? Would it/could it put something, someone or even me in danger? (I was
a test engineer.)
A BIG brand-new Hatteras was being delivered to its new owners and was
passing through the Florida Panhandle area. The electronic engine controls on
both engines malfunctioned and shut down the engines just as the boat was
passing Cape San Blas (probably the most dangerous spot in this area during
stormy weather, which it was then). There were no manual/redundant engine
controls, and the crew was at a loss as how to troubleshoot the problem
quickly, so they threw out the anchor and awaited a tow. There was some fear
that the boat would be destroyed on the shoals, but it was towed to safety. I
was told that the new owner flatly rejected the boat because of this
experience.
///remainder snipped///
>>>
Nuff said....
Wayne
M/V Celestial
Albin 43 Sundeck
