Engine hours?

[H60driver]

Hello Tugnutters, New guy here. I am currently doing my research and looking at all smaller trailerable cruising boats. I am always drawn back to the Ranger tugs and think the R-21 really is the one that will fit my “mission” profile best. I am looking at the used market, and have noticed a wide range of hours on the engines of these boats. What would be acceptable as a max hour level without having to think about replacing or overhauling the engine on a boat? The nearest used boats to me are in TX and about 16 hour drive, It’s a bit to travel to buy a boat that would need to be repowered. Any and all opinions in this matter would be greatly appreciated. Thank you.

 

[SlackwaterJack]

With the small Yanmar diesels if it starts quickly, doesn't smoke (white or black, a little puff is ok on startup), isn't covered with rust, and idles nicely, its good to go. These engines are able to get at least 10,000 hours on them before replacement* becomes an issue. Maint. is simple and the systems are simple. (* might be a rebuild somewhere along the way to 10,000 hrs but even if replaced they cost less than most 50 hp outboards)
Unlike gas engines diesels turn slower ( Yanmars like 2300- 3400 Rpm range so the trans and running gear are under much less stress, and they don't rely on complex electrical systems to run (no plugs to change,no spark control to corrode etc..). Also, diesel fuel is MUCH safer on a boat than gasoline...so there's no bilge blower needed
The R-21 is stoutly constructed, and because it is a "slow" boat it isn't subjected to the severe pounding abuse that a fast boat gets, so engine bed and stringer damage isn't a concern. The great access and simplicity of systems (esp the R-21 pre 2006) increases the probability of them being properly serviced.

And the cost of fuel?...I often run mine for 8-10 hours at a time (around 2200-2500rpm) and use about 2-3 gals of fuel.

My neighbor's v8 jet boat uses that much pulling out of his slip and exiting the marina, and 90 gallons of gas for a day on the water. His gets used about 2 times a year...mine about 2 times a week.

 

[RProffer]

I am told the Yanmar 3YM30 diesel engine in the R21-EC should be able to last 5,000 to 10,000 hours when properly maintained. That engine is relatively new to the fleet and no one has even come close to 5,000 hours yet. I think there are a couple that have over 400 hours. Reviewing the forums on Tugnuts.com and C-Brats.com, I have not seen anyone report any real problems with the 3YM30 engine or the GM series engines used on the earlier R21's. Scheduled maintenance on the 3YM30 is very simple and everything is real easy to get to. You do not have to crawl into a hole to get to anything. I am not a diesel engine expert, but I am told that if you do the scheduled maintenance on a diesel engine and keep the diesel fuel clean, the engine should last forever. The majority of problems with a diesel concern dirty fuel. That is why clean fuel is so important. The R21-EC has two fuel filters. If you do not do your own maintenance, there are lots of Yanmar mechanics around.

The R21-EC is a fun boats and we really enjoy it. If cruising at 8 mph is acceptable to you, then you should enjoy the boat. She burns about 3 quarts of diesel an hour. We can cruise all day and only burn about 5 gallons of diesel. It is a great day boat and we occasionally spend a night or two on her. It is great for fishing and gunk holing. Only draws 24" of water.

Ranger Tugs in general are very well built and have great factory support, which is practically unheard of in this industry. If you are looking for long range cruises and lots of overnights on the water, then you should look at the R25 or larger tugs.

 

[rt11002003]

I think SlackwaterJack pretty much covered the subject. However, I'd like to add: all engines fare better if used regularly. And, fuel systems offer better results if fuel is cycled and not left sitting in tanks and lines.

One will find vessels out there with varying amounts of usage. Too little use may be worse than what might seem like a high number of hours. In 17 months of use I've put 150 hours on my R21EC. I use it once or twice a week. Haven't done any long trips with it. Probably would have another 50 hours on it, but I have a sailboat that takes some of my time.

Look for a vessel that has been cared for. Check the log to see how it has been used and maintained.

Good luck,

Gene

 

[H60driver]

Thank you all for some great advice, it does put at ease my concerns over some of the older boats out there.