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Beta Marine Repower Solutions -> Beta Marine Engines -> Columbia 8.7 MD-6B repower..
Post Info TOPIC: Columbia 8.7 MD-6B repower..
Paul Mileski


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Columbia 8.7 MD-6B repower..
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Hello!  I am at the point of re-powering my 1977 Columbia 8.7 since my trusty Volvo MD-6B is now virtually unsupportable.  I am considering the Beta 16 (I saw that another 8.7 owner was thus advised).    Is it possible to purchase my new engine with the mounts arranged such that it would be a "drop-in" replacement for the MD-6B?   Is the 3/4 inch shaft still adequate?  I also need to determine if my existing through-hull and exhaust diameter are adequate.  I intend to replace the fuel tank and all fuel system components.  The current propeller is 15x9 but an oddball in that it has much more blade area than the original "sailor" -which was awful enough to consider a three-blade.  I tried this "fat" two-blade (found at a consignment shop) and it worked well enough that I would consider a two-blade for the new engine provided one with acceptable slip could be found.  I like to orient the blades behind the skeg deadwood in light air...  I am very excited about this upgrade!  Looking forward to hearing from you- Thanks! sincerely, Paul Mileski



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Farron


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Hello Paul,

Welcome to the forum.

The Beta 16 would be plenty of power for the Columbia 8.7. This engine will be 180 lbs lighter than the MD-6B and add an extra 6 hp.

The Beta 16 comes with 14.5 wide mounts as standard. This will be every close to the width of the MD-6B. More than likely your current engine beds will be a bit too low to work with the Beta engine.
This is a good thing, as it is very easy to add pieces of white oak or a similar durable wood to the top of the current engine bed to make up the difference in height.

In order to get all the power you are purchasing to the water, we would recommend a 13 x 8 or 14 x 7, 3 blade propeller for this application. The 15 x 9, 2 blade, Sailor prop should also work.

A ¾ stainless steel shaft will be adequate.

You will need a ¾ full flow sea**** and ¾ strainer and hose to supply the raw water pump.

Exhaust is 2 wet.

Have fun with your project!



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Best regards,

Farron

Technical Sales and Service for Beta Marine, US Ltd. Minnesott Beach, NC   PH: 252-249-2473  farron@betamarineusa.com
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