I am looking to install an engine in my Lyle Hess designed 32' sailboat. She is strip-planked and displaces 10 ton. Is there a big downside to an off-set engine? I was hoping not to cut out my rudder. And how much engine is "too much"? Thanks
This was common practice years ago. The major problem that you will encounter with an offset prop is that you will notice a definate difference in your sailing performance upwind. The boat will have better speed on one tack than the other because of the extra drag from the strut, shaft and prop.
As long as the offset isn't too great you wont have a great affect on the helm under power. Keep the shaft on the port side of the boat for a LH turning propeller and on the stbd for a RH turning prop. This will give you the least affect on the helm and help with manouvering under power.
I can work out prop calcs for you. From the limited info that I have on your boat, I would think that you will use the Beta 28 or Beta 38 as your power source.
