Engine room temperature

[colburnp]

New 29 Tug owner. On previous trawlers we have had rather hefty exhaust fans to keep the engine space relatively cool. In fact on our last boat we even added a large exhaust fan because the added ventilation was better for electronic components and the batteries in the engine room. Now my Ranger Tug question: since we will be using this boat primarily in Florida (Bahamas?) do you think an exhaust blower would be a worthwhile addition to keep all the other inhabitants of the engine room space happy?
Thanks for the advice. Cheers, Patrece

 

[pugtug613]

IMO, it couldn't hurt. Especially in Fl.
These boats were designed and built in PNW where A/C isn't really necessary.
I would just check with the factory and any warranty issues.
It wouldn't be difficult to vent out of the transom.

 

[Kenny Marrs]

Hello Patrece,

While I don't think it would hurt anything to add a blower in the engine compartment, I haven't had any issues with Tugs in Florida boating without them.

Thanks,
-Kenny

 

[GA-Midnight Cruise]

I spent several days coastal cruising between Savannah and Jacksonville, FL this summer in my R21 Classic. Two consecutive days at 100 F. I have the original, rebuilt Hitachi starter and it has been tempermental in the heat. One such afternoon, I had to open the engine room cabinet to vent. Starter just would not turn. It was too hot to touch. After an hour ventilating, we were running. Went out on Lanier this weekend, high was 80 F., started every time, same starter. My in between starter was a cheap Chinese starter. Never thought I would say this, I'm considering just paying $75 on ebay each year and replace with a cheap starter. It takes me under 10 mins to swap and includes shipping. My engine room has a good bit of condensation from day to evening. I can't help but think this too affects the brushes and electricals.