PDQ OWNERS FORUM

I am in the process of mounting Honda 15's with electric tilt to the back of my Capella. Yes, outside the nacelle (motor well).

I have researched this for over a year and have now committed.

Details to follow - including the scoop on the custom fabricated brackets.

The installation should be completed in about three weeks.

Off to see the Barefoot Man in Guana Cay (via airplane).


Anxious in Hobe Sound,

What kind of speed do you get weith the 15hps?

Marc

Marc:
The following is a report from Tranquility. They too changed to Honda 15's mounted externally.
"I was getting a good 6.0+ knots under full load and two adults on
board (full water tanks, gas tank, hanging dinghy & engine, generator,
water maker, AC, & all the extra cruising gear, sails, freezer, food,
etc.). Obviously, I haven't had a chance to see what the boat will do
when all the extra weight is removed. Surely it will pick up another
knot or two.

I think a key advantages of the 15s are the confidence they provide
regarding thrust, and of course, the electric lifts. Not once did I
get a sense of being underpowered during our recent trip... but then
again, I was never in a situation where thrust really mattered (e.g.,
fighting an outgoing current at a pass, powering through a heavy
storm, runnning aground etc.).

An advange of the exterior bracket mounts is the ready access to the
engines for servicing. The down side of the external bracket mounts is
that it is an EXPENSIVE transformation."

I can add: The electric tilt? Priceless. Without a full load 7.5 kt speed is not uncommon. The best part is that with a strong head on current and/or wind, I no longer feel like I am in a slugfest. No more 2.8 or 3.2 kt speeds. Also the thrust and power when docking in adverse conditions is GREATLY improved. I have since modified the bracket used. I also added a piece onto the bracket face plate that allows the motor height to be adjustable. This was necessary since I miscalculated the best depth for the motors. I also had to modify and move the "water deflector" aft. This was to decrease/stop ventilation (erroneously referred to as cavitation).

Besides the monetary issue, I am very pleased with the esthetic and performance outcome.

Hope this helps,

Can you add new photos of your changes to the http://www.pdq36.com website?

Chris & Kelley:

Will do.