Tom, have you considered keeping the Atomic 4? Even if it can't be rebuilt,
it may make more sense to replace it with a working Atomic 4 than with a
diesel.

Safety is an issue that can and must be addressed in using gasoline, but
economically, a conversion to diesel will never make sense. As evidence of
this, compare the estimates of conversion cost to the cost of boats similar
to yours in size, age, and quality that already have diesels. You may find
it cheaper to buy a used boat with a diesel engine than to convert yours.
This will surely ignite some contrary opinions.

Good luck.

Chuck



Thomas Wentworth wrote:

A friend has offered me his old Pearson Vanguard 33' sailboat. It is in
good shape.
But, it needs a new engine. It has the original Atomic 4 gas.

What diesel engine would be the best replacement? How much do the diesels
cost? How much work is it the replace an old Atomic 4 in a 1968 year
sailboat? When replacing the engine, does the shaft, fuel tank etc also
get replaced?

Any other info???


Thanks,,, Tom