We are restoring our 1980 S2 36' center ****pit sloop, displacement 15,000 lbs., DWL 26'3". We will be replacing its 36-40 hp VW Pathfinder diesel, and wanted suggestions on the best choice of Beta models re engine/transmission. Our expected use will be coastal cruising in the southern California area. Engine dimensions are also an issue, as we anticipate a tight fit to install through the ****pit hatch. Although the engine room is of adequate size and can be opened to the front, rear and port sides, it has very limited starboard and overhead access. We like all we've read so far about Beta. Any thoughts to get us started in the right direction would be most appreciated.
The S2-36-11.OC is a great boat and quite an easy one to repower. I admit that I have only seen them with a Universal 4 cylinder installed so there will be some differances as you have the Pathfinder.
Basically the Pathfinder is physically larger than the Beta 38 so you should not have any issues with space in the compartment and if the old engine comes out cleanly, the new one will go in with ease. The Pathfinder is also a wider engine than the Beta.
I have run some propeller calculations for you; 1) Beta 30 with 2.45:1 TMC 60 transmission- estimated boat speed is 7.2Knots using a 17'x10" three blade propeller 2) Beta 38 with 2.45:1 TMC60 transmission- estimated boat speed is 7.6Knots using 17"x12" three blade propeller. The specs that I have on your boat show a 28'3" waterline and I have used this in my calculations. My prop calc provides conservative boat speed estimates.
I hope that this helps with your decision. Regards, Stanley
