Propulsion
As you can imagine, a vessel the size of Island Eagle has some fairly sophisticated systems. Propulsion, electrical, and electronic systems are similar to those found on small ships (or small towns, for that matter). Over the first two years I owned Island Eagle, I replaced or upgraded virtual every system on the boat. Here's a quick overview, with links to more detail.
The propulsion system is obviously the most critical component of an ocean-going motor vessel, and if you have a single engine like Island Eagle does, then you care a lot about that engine!
When I bought her, Island Eagle was equipped with the same engine she had been launched with, a General Motors Detroit Diesel model 6-110. Power was delivered through a Allision Model MH 4.5:1 reduction transmission, driving a 3" diameter bronze shaft to a 5-bladed 44" diameter prop. This combination will drive the boat at approximately 7.5 knots when the engine is turning at 1350 RPM (300 shaft RPM), which is a very comfortable cruising speed.
While I initially considered replacing the old engine,for a number of reasons I decided to keep in in place, and I have never regretted that decision. It has been absolutely rock-solid reliable.
Rounding out the propulsion system is the rudder and steering gear, which at the time we purchased Island Eagle was a Rube Goldberg contraption that barely worked at the best of times. It's been changed to a nice new Jastram hydraulic system with solid 1/2" copper lines, which is about a thousand times better. It's been absolutely reliable.
The propulsion system is obviously the most critical component of an ocean-going motor vessel, and if you have a single engine like Island Eagle does, then you care a lot about that engine!
When I bought her, Island Eagle was equipped with the same engine she had been launched with, a General Motors Detroit Diesel model 6-110. Power was delivered through a Allision Model MH 4.5:1 reduction transmission, driving a 3" diameter bronze shaft to a 5-bladed 44" diameter prop. This combination will drive the boat at approximately 7.5 knots when the engine is turning at 1350 RPM (300 shaft RPM), which is a very comfortable cruising speed.
While I initially considered replacing the old engine,for a number of reasons I decided to keep in in place, and I have never regretted that decision. It has been absolutely rock-solid reliable.
Rounding out the propulsion system is the rudder and steering gear, which at the time we purchased Island Eagle was a Rube Goldberg contraption that barely worked at the best of times. It's been changed to a nice new Jastram hydraulic system with solid 1/2" copper lines, which is about a thousand times better. It's been absolutely reliable.
