"Denis Marier" wrote in message
...

I just learned that the Catalina 30 has it diesel engine located
amidships.
I do not know if this is the best location. Some people are saying that it
is the best location for weight distribution. However, that may leave the
engine more vulnerable to salty bilge water and sound insulation may be
difficult. Any idea if this is correct


Not amidships. Insulation is a problem as many older Catalinas-my 92'
Catalina 28, for example-had NO insulation installed at the factory, just a
grp cover. Installed insulation, taking care of noise levels, never had a
problem with water and the engine. The engine is fairly forward, but high
enough above the bilge level so water shouldn't be an issue, unless the boat
is sinking, of course. and moving the engine forward is probably a good idea
for proper weight distribution, you don't want all of the weight in the ass
end of the boat. If you look at enough boats with inboards you'll note that
most of them do locate the powerplant as far forward as is practical.

John Cairns