I currently have a 1979 Hunter 30. The current YSM12R is at end of life with multiple issues. Repairing or rebuilding is close to repower with other vendor. I would like to repower with either the beta 16 or 20. Has anyone replaced a Yanmar with a Beta on a Hunter 30 or similiar vessel? Looking for pitfalls and questions to ask local dealer. This is a big investment in very old loved boat.
Hello, Your boat has a very easily driven hull and the Beta 16 will provide a gracious reserve of power and very relaxed cruising. This engine (or the Beta 20) can be supplied on the same mount centers as your old YSM12 to make installation comparitively easy.
Expect to purchase a new propeller (about $450 for a 3 blade) and new engine control as the new engine has a transmission that shifts very easily and uses a much smaller cable that the old one.
It wont take you long to get used to a smooth running and quiet engine that starts when you want it to. I have attached 2 photos of a Hunter 27 (also a 1979 model) that was repowered with the Beta 14. The complaint of the owners is "why did't we do this years ago"? They enjoy the boat much more now that they can use it any time without first having to work in it.
Thank you for your information, I have contacted the local Beta Marine vendor and he is getting me a quote. I am going to take a look at the 14 and 16 at his shop. I am very surprised at how reasonable the price of the unit is. It should fit pretty well in my engine compartment since it is a smaller foot print. I won't miss the shaking of the old engine either.
I currently have a 1979 Hunter 30. The current YSM12R is at end of life with multiple issues. Repairing or rebuilding is close to repower with other vendor. I would like to repower with either the beta 16 or 20. Has anyone replaced a Yanmar with a Beta on a Hunter 30 or similiar vessel? Looking for pitfalls and questions to ask local dealer. This is a big investment in very old loved boat.
