Ken Coit wrote:

Jere,

I agree that there is more to consider than the number of cylinders, but
there are so many variables in an installation, that I wouldn't expect two
engines of the model and age to sound the same in the same boat, let alone a
different boat. The Beta I did see on a boat was very quiet, but I don't
know whether that is because it was naturally quiet, quiet because it was
boxed with lots of insulation, or quiet because it was driving an hydraulic
pump instead of a prop.

All true, which implies that whatever you choose, a proper installation
will make it as smooth and quiet as you require.

What I do know is that Robinhood Yachts is currently using the Yanmar 3JH3E
in the same hull as our boat. If I can presume that a manufacturer that is
going to build a $250,000 boat is going to spend at least a little time
analyzing which modern engine to use, then the Yanmar is a good bet.

Unluckily, sometimes they choose an engine by cost or some other
criteria, so while I like Yanmars, I wouldn't make assumptions. 'Course,
you might call up the factory and ask. It could well be that the Yanmar
is the best engine for some reason.

However, lots of people on this list love the Perkins....

And some who like two stroke outboards and SeaGulls.

--
Jere Lull
Xan-a-Deux ('73 Tanzer 28 #4 out of Tolchester, MD)
Xan's Pages: http://members.dca.net/jerelull/X-Main.html
Our BVI FAQs (290+ pics) http://homepage.mac.com/jerelull/BVI/