A4 Hand Crank

Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to have a hand crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I could find one. Moyers does not sell these. Best regards and thanks -- /ch

I always thought Moyers had them. Randy CAL 2-29 (A 4 engine) Out Patient Channel Islands Ca From: chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com Sent: Sun, March 7, 2010 7:43:16 PM Subject: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to have a hand crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I could find one. Moyers does not sell these. Best regards and thanks -- /ch

I've always had the suspicion that the A4 engine was the same engine in the WWII Jeep. Or did it come from a WWII lifeboat launch? I always thought the description of it as "atomic" was pretty hilarious since it is an antiquated flat head design. They do have a nice, comforting sound when they run, and aren't smelly like diesels are. Jerry --- On Sun, 3/7/10, chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> wrote: From: chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> Subject: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010, 7:43 PM Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to have a hand crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I could find one. Moyers does not sell these. Best regards and thanks -- /ch

Atomic 4's have been installed in a hell of a lot of boats and it is to their credit that they gave all they could. Putting an A4 in a 14 thousand pound displacment sailboat and then adding a 15" 3 blade prop flexed and broke a lot of crankshafts when the boat driver tried to push them uphill in 6'seas and 25k wind on the nose. We called them Anemic 4's but the name really did not fit. In their day they were damn good little charmers Remenber the Ford V8 60's? I put the A4 in the same class. In the 80's a good sailing bud had his crew jump ship on a Newport Beach San Francisco delivery in winter. When I reached the boat(described above 7 ton,etc,) He was complaining about excess fuel consumption, I too a peek at the motor and discovered that the 4th cylinder sparkplug wire had dropped off. To this day he still thinks I pulled the wire to mess with his head. Tough little motor when given reasonable care! My Best, Mike From: Gerald Sobel <so… [at] yahoo.com> To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com Sent: Sun, March 7, 2010 11:47:18 PM Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank I've always had the suspicion that the A4 engine was the same engine in the WWII Jeep. Or did it come from a WWII lifeboat launch? I always thought the description of it as "atomic" was pretty hilarious since it is an antiquated flat head design. They do have a nice, comforting sound when they run, and aren't smelly like diesels are. Jerry --- On Sun, 3/7/10, chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> wrote: >From: chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> >Subject: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank >To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com >Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010, 7:43 PM > > > >Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to have a hand >crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I >could find one. Moyers does not sell these. > >Best regards and thanks > >-- >/ch >

The Atomic 4 was designed by the Universal Motor Co as a marine engine. The Jeep engine was similar in design, [ flat head 4 ] but a different engine, developed by a different company, for a much different application. Atomic 4 engines are _MUCH_ smellier than a modern diesel Jerry! The new diesels burn VERY cleanly, and are very stingy with fuel. *Joe DeMers - owner* Sound Marine Diesel LLC SoundMarineDiesel.com <http://www.soundmarinediesel.com/> *phone & fax (860) 666-2184* On 3/8/2010 2:47 AM, Gerald Sobel wrote: > > > I've always had the suspicion that the A4 engine was the same engine > in the WWII Jeep. > Or did it come from a WWII lifeboat launch? > I always thought the description of it as "atomic" was pretty > hilarious since it is an antiquated flat head design. > They do have a nice, comforting sound when they run, and aren't smelly > like diesels are. > Jerry > > --- On *Sun, 3/7/10, chris123 /<ch… [at] gmail.com>/* wrote: > > > From: chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> > Subject: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank > To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com > Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010, 7:43 PM > > Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to have a hand > crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I > could find one. Moyers does not sell these. > > Best regards and thanks > > -- > /ch > > > > > > > > No virus found in this incoming message. > Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > Version: 9.0.733 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/2728 - Release Date: 03/07/10 02:34:00 > > -- *Joe DeMers - owner* Sound Marine Diesel LLC SoundMarineDiesel.com <http://www.soundmarinediesel.com/> *phone & fax (860) 666-2184*

Perhaps they do but the on line catalogue specifically says not to be used for cranking the engine rather timing. If you take a look at some video's on youtube you will see the difference. They are different at both ends. The hand crank has a lever attached to the shaft and the other end has a socket looking thing-a-ma-jig that attaches to the nut on the flywheel. Interestingly enough, cleaning out the boat to get it ready, I stumbled across the crank, tested it and it works fine. So good to go. One more item off the check list. Best regards. Chris H

Not to quibble about engines as each has there preferred, so the following are only initial observations. When I was looking for a boat I originally spec'd a diesel for all the reasons given. However did not check into spare parts costs. Friend has a 3 cylinder yanmar down in the Rio and had to replace engine mounts, starter motor and few other things. Its normal wear an tear on a 79 Ericson 35. I was surprised how expensive all these parts were. Fuel consumption is marvelous and it does stink a bit as its an older Yanmar. Now flip over to the the A4 that came with my boat. Moves the boat at hull speed at around 1700 rpm if the gauge is right. (still gotta check that one) Parts are cheap and reliable, sources are plenty, I can fix most things myself as its a standard gasoline engine provided I have access to good manual (still to be purchased). The concern about exploding boats from gasoline is over rated. Saw stats somewhere that such cases are rare, "for a properly maintained, inspected and started engine" So do the pre start check religiously. If she dies the cost of replacing her in terms of parts is about half the cost of a new diesel and she drops in place. Not much to fuss with. So my point is Ive come to like this engine the more I get to know her and understand how she works. The only part that is disconcerting is the amount if ethanol in fuels sold locally. Even my 2001 GMC Safari has a real hard time starting when the weather is wet and the tank is low. Never had a problem with it in the coldest and wettest days up north. So now when I fill the car, and the boat tank, fuel additives are added to stabilize the fuel and it seem to work fine. Now if I had a bigger boat, in terms of length or displacement I don't think the A-4 would cut it. But in boats at 30 ft or less, the limited experience I have on this vessel indicates that its a fine match both in terms of performance and operating costs. She runs untuned, (another item on the list) at approx 1 gal/hr So the trade off is fuel costs vs maintenance costs. The solution for long distances is a 2x6 bolted to the stanchions, 2x 5 Imp gallon spare tanks to supplement the installed 11US gal tank. This gives me a range of approx 3 days at 8 hrs per day prior to filling the tanks if I'm on the engine the entire time. At an average cost of lets say 3US per gallon to be conservative this gives me a 3 dollar per hour cost at 6 miles per hour so I'm running 50 cents a mile on an untuned engine. I can live with that when I consider the costs of routine maintenance and replacement parts for a diesel. Again, on larger vessels, the A-4 I don't think would cut it. And if I did go for diesel it would be a Kabota once the original died unless of course it was a Perkins. I really like those, but that implies a rather large vessel which I dont see in the immediate future or anytime soon. Just my 2 CDN cents Best regards Chris H.

My Gray marine engine is basically an old version of the Atomic-4. Mine is 55 years old and still running. I think they last almost forever. I have had the boat 20 years and in that time I have replaced the spark plugs a couple times, and re-did the wires, points and cap a few years ago. I did that just because, not because of a problem. The only serious issue was a blown head gasket which made it hard to start when warm (read wet). It did not leave me stranded, just hard to start. I replaced that my self and although it was a bitch because I broke 5 head bolts, it was cheap to replace, about $200. Other issues are water pump leaks and rebuilding the carb. The water pump is leaking right now so I might have to change it out to the spare this season. The pumps leak every few years and eventually freeze up and you find you are being followed by a plume of steam. So, not completely trouble free but not that bad assuming you know where to get parts. The nice thing is that when something does go wrong, I just put up the sail and go back out and fix it. I would have no idea how to fix a newer engine. However, it is heavy and my boat would go faster under sail with a modern engine. Allen On Mon, Mar 8, 2010 at 8:38 AM, chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com>wrote: > > > Not to quibble about engines as each has there preferred, so the following > are only initial observations. When I was looking for a boat I originally > spec'd a diesel for all the reasons given. However did not check into spare > parts costs. Friend has a 3 cylinder yanmar down in the Rio and had to > replace engine mounts, starter motor and few other things. Its normal wear > an tear on a 79 Ericson 35. I was surprised how expensive all these parts > were. Fuel consumption is marvelous and it does stink a bit as its an older > Yanmar. > > Now flip over to the the A4 that came with my boat. Moves the boat at hull > speed at around 1700 rpm if the gauge is right. (still gotta check that one) > Parts are cheap and reliable, sources are plenty, I can fix most things > myself as its a standard gasoline engine provided I have access to good > manual (still to be purchased). The concern about exploding boats from > gasoline is over rated. Saw stats somewhere that such cases are rare, "for a > properly maintained, inspected and started engine" So do the pre start check > religiously. If she dies the cost of replacing her in terms of parts is > about half the cost of a new diesel and she drops in place. Not much to fuss > with. > > So my point is Ive come to like this engine the more I get to know her and > understand how she works. The only part that is disconcerting is the amount > if ethanol in fuels sold locally. Even my 2001 GMC Safari has a real hard > time starting when the weather is wet and the tank is low. Never had a > problem with it in the coldest and wettest days up north. So now when I fill > the car, and the boat tank, fuel additives are added to stabilize the fuel > and it seem to work fine. > > Now if I had a bigger boat, in terms of length or displacement I don't > think the A-4 would cut it. But in boats at 30 ft or less, the limited > experience I have on this vessel indicates that its a fine match both in > terms of performance and operating costs. > > She runs untuned, (another item on the list) at approx 1 gal/hr So the > trade off is fuel costs vs maintenance costs. The solution for long > distances is a 2x6 bolted to the stanchions, 2x 5 Imp gallon spare tanks to > supplement the installed 11US gal tank. This gives me a range of approx 3 > days at 8 hrs per day prior to filling the tanks if I'm on the engine the > entire time. At an average cost of lets say 3US per gallon to be > conservative this gives me a 3 dollar per hour cost at 6 miles per hour so > I'm running 50 cents a mile on an untuned engine. I can live with that when > I consider the costs of routine maintenance and replacement parts for a > diesel. > > Again, on larger vessels, the A-4 I don't think would cut it. And if I did > go for diesel it would be a Kabota once the original died unless of course > it was a Perkins. I really like those, but that implies a rather large > vessel which I dont see in the immediate future or anytime soon. > > Just my 2 CDN cents > > Best regards > > Chris H. > > >

the jeep eng is different it has a front oil seal water pump is in block ... jeep eng 45 to 57 hp however they both use same point set ! so when ordering points for "EARLY" atomic 4 ask for willys 1945 and "LATE" ask for 1968 Chev II 4 (DELCO). spark plugs J8C or 2nd choice J8 in mower section lowes or home depot ... 1968 Volvo wire set will work but coil wire is longer!! I prefer copper cored spark wires and copper electrodes dist. cap for marine use ... We love our A4 and it has only caught Fire once! in CAL Boats 34 36 they use reduction to get more push out of A4... as diesel goes it Stinks and all you clothes like a truck driver's.. and you NEED GAS for your dink anyway....if you go to diesel send me your Atomic 4 I will pay fright .. thank edward cal 29 & cal 36 .. I need fresh water cooling and small hand crank 650 771 1945 J8C or From: Gerald Sobel <so… [at] yahoo.com> To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com Sent: Sun, March 7, 2010 11:47:18 PM Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank I've always had the suspicion that the A4 engine was the same engine in the WWII Jeep. Or did it come from a WWII lifeboat launch? I always thought the description of it as "atomic" was pretty hilarious since it is an antiquated flat head design. They do have a nice, comforting sound when they run, and aren't smelly like diesels are. Jerry --- On Sun, 3/7/10, chris123 <chris.herrnberger@ gmail.com> wrote: >From: chris123 <chris.herrnberger@ gmail.com> >Subject: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank >To: Cal_Boats@yahoogrou ps.com >Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010, 7:43 PM > > >> > > > > > > > >> > >Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to have a hand >>crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I >>could find one. Moyers does not sell these. > >>Best regards and thanks > >>-- >>/ch >

Chris, I couldn't agree more. Nice engine, good performance. Hey, I grew up with flathead Fords. I would suggest you upgrade to electronic ignition. I used the Indigo Electronics kit, but Moyer offers one also. I had my yard replace the fuel pump and carb, and it runs like new. by the way, mechanical fuel pump. I don't like the issues with the electric ones. Regards, David Dobbs, Cal29 411 , --- On Mon, 3/8/10, chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> wrote: From: chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank & history To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com Date: Monday, March 8, 2010, 10:38 AM Not to quibble about engines as each has there preferred, so the following are only initial observations. When I was looking for a boat I originally spec'd a diesel for all the reasons given. However did not check into spare parts costs. Friend has a 3 cylinder yanmar down in the Rio and had to replace engine mounts, starter motor and few other things. Its normal wear an tear on a 79 Ericson 35. I was surprised how expensive all these parts were. Fuel consumption is marvelous and it does stink a bit as its an older Yanmar. Now flip over to the the A4 that came with my boat. Moves the boat at hull speed at around 1700 rpm if the gauge is right. (still gotta check that one) Parts are cheap and reliable, sources are plenty, I can fix most things myself as its a standard gasoline engine provided I have access to good manual (still to be purchased). The concern about exploding boats from gasoline is over rated. Saw stats somewhere that such cases are rare, "for a properly maintained, inspected and started engine" So do the pre start check religiously. If she dies the cost of replacing her in terms of parts is about half the cost of a new diesel and she drops in place. Not much to fuss with. So my point is Ive come to like this engine the more I get to know her and understand how she works. The only part that is disconcerting is the amount if ethanol in fuels sold locally. Even my 2001 GMC Safari has a real hard time starting when the weather is wet and the tank is low. Never had a problem with it in the coldest and wettest days up north. So now when I fill the car, and the boat tank, fuel additives are added to stabilize the fuel and it seem to work fine. Now if I had a bigger boat, in terms of length or displacement I don't think the A-4 would cut it. But in boats at 30 ft or less, the limited experience I have on this vessel indicates that its a fine match both in terms of performance and operating costs. She runs untuned, (another item on the list) at approx 1 gal/hr So the trade off is fuel costs vs maintenance costs. The solution for long distances is a 2x6 bolted to the stanchions, 2x 5 Imp gallon spare tanks to supplement the installed 11US gal tank. This gives me a range of approx 3 days at 8 hrs per day prior to filling the tanks if I'm on the engine the entire time. At an average cost of lets say 3US per gallon to be conservative this gives me a 3 dollar per hour cost at 6 miles per hour so I'm running 50 cents a mile on an untuned engine. I can live with that when I consider the costs of routine maintenance and replacement parts for a diesel. Again, on larger vessels, the A-4 I don't think would cut it. And if I did go for diesel it would be a Kabota once the original died unless of course it was a Perkins. I really like those, but that implies a rather large vessel which I dont see in the immediate future or anytime soon. Just my 2 CDN cents Best regards Chris H.

The PO did all the upgrades recommended by Moyer's except the electric fuel pump. Les took good care of the engine including a new head gasket and acid wash. The only issue that I see is the fuel system needs some maintenance, filter changes, new Racor filter (on the todo list) and replacement pressure bulb. The one thing I would like to replace it the gauge set as they are fist off in the wrong place, on the starboard side forward of the wheel which makes the info useless as you cannot see it, some gauges work and some don't, and the panel is rapidly decaying being a 78. Any clues on sources for replacement panels. I would like to mount the new one behind the wheel on the starboard side, and the autopilot and GPS system on port also behind the wheel. Best regards and thanks /ch On Mon, Mar 8, 2010 at 6:05 PM, david dobbs <tm… [at] yahoo.com> wrote: > > > > Chris, > I couldn't agree more. Nice engine, good performance. Hey, I grew up with flathead Fords. I would suggest you upgrade to electronic ignition. I used the Indigo Electronics kit, but Moyer offers one also. I had my yard replace the fuel pump and carb, and it runs like new. by the way, mechanical fuel pump. I don't like the issues with the electric ones. > > Regards, > David Dobbs, Cal29 411 > , > --- On Mon, 3/8/10, chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> wrote: > > From: chris123 <ch… [at] gmail.com> > Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank & history > To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com > Date: Monday, March 8, 2010, 10:38 AM > > > Not to quibble about engines as each has there preferred, so the following are only initial observations. When I was looking for a boat I originally spec'd a diesel for all the reasons given. However did not check into spare parts costs. Friend has a 3 cylinder yanmar down in the Rio and had to replace engine mounts, starter motor and few other things. Its normal wear an tear on a 79 Ericson 35. I was surprised how expensive all these parts were. Fuel consumption is marvelous and it does stink a bit as its an older Yanmar. > > Now flip over to the the A4 that came with my boat. Moves the boat at hull speed at around 1700 rpm if the gauge is right. (still gotta check that one) Parts are cheap and reliable, sources are plenty, I can fix most things myself as its a standard gasoline engine provided I have access to good manual (still to be purchased). The concern about exploding boats from gasoline is over rated. Saw stats somewhere that such cases are rare, "for a properly maintained, inspected and started engine" So do the pre start check religiously. If she dies the cost of replacing her in terms of parts is about half the cost of a new diesel and she drops in place. Not much to fuss with. > > So my point is Ive come to like this engine the more I get to know her and understand how she works. The only part that is disconcerting is the amount if ethanol in fuels sold locally. Even my 2001 GMC Safari has a real hard time starting when the weather is wet and the tank is low. Never had a problem with it in the coldest and wettest days up north. So now when I fill the car, and the boat tank, fuel additives are added to stabilize the fuel and it seem to work fine. > > Now if I had a bigger boat, in terms of length or displacement I don't think the A-4 would cut it. But in boats at 30 ft or less, the limited experience I have on this vessel indicates that its a fine match both in terms of performance and operating costs. > > She runs untuned, (another item on the list) at approx 1 gal/hr So the trade off is fuel costs vs maintenance costs. The solution for long distances is a 2x6 bolted to the stanchions, 2x 5 Imp gallon spare tanks to supplement the installed 11US gal tank. This gives me a range of approx 3 days at 8 hrs per day prior to filling the tanks if I'm on the engine the entire time. At an average cost of lets say 3US per gallon to be conservative this gives me a 3 dollar per hour cost at 6 miles per hour so I'm running 50 cents a mile on an untuned engine. I can live with that when I consider the costs of routine maintenance and replacement parts for a diesel. > > Again, on larger vessels, the A-4 I don't think would cut it. And if I did go for diesel it would be a Kabota once the original died unless of course it was a Perkins. I really like those, but that implies a rather large vessel which I dont see in the immediate future or anytime soon. > > Just my 2 CDN cents > > Best regards > > Chris H. > > > -- /ch

My Yanmar 3GM does not smell at all even dead down wind! Donald Dutton, Cal 33-2, "Quantum Evolution" "Twenty Years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the things you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." ........Mark Twain From: Joe DeMers <je… [at] mindspring.com> To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com Sent: Mon, March 8, 2010 6:32:07 AM Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank & history The Atomic 4 was designed by the Universal Motor Co as a marine engine. The Jeep engine was similar in design, [ flat head 4 ] but a different engine, developed by a different company, for a much different application. Atomic 4 engines are MUCH smellier than a modern diesel Jerry! The new diesels burn VERY cleanly, and are very stingy with fuel. Joe DeMers - owner Sound Marine Diesel LLCSoundMarineDiesel. com phone & fax (860) 666-2184 On 3/8/2010 2:47 AM, Gerald Sobel wrote: > > >I've always had the suspicion that the A4 engine was the >same engine in the WWII Jeep. >>Or did it come from a WWII lifeboat launch? >>I always thought the description of it as "atomic" was pretty hilarious >since it is an antiquated flat head design. >>They do have a nice, comforting sound when they run, and aren't smelly >like diesels are. >>Jerry > >>--- On Sun, 3/7/10, chris123 <chris.herrnberger@ gmail.com> >wrote: > > >>>>From: chris123 <chris.herrnberger@ gmail.com> >>>>Subject: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank >>>>To: Cal_Boats@yahoogrou ps.com >>>>Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010, 7:43 PM >> >> >> >>Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to >>have a hand >>>>crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I >>>>could find one. Moyers does not sell these. >> >>>>Best regards and thanks >> >>>>-- >>>>/ch >> > > >No virus found in this incoming message. >Checked by AVG - www.avg.com >Version: 9.0.733 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/2728 - Release Date: 03/07/10 02:34:00 > > -- Joe DeMers - owner Sound Marine Diesel LLCSoundMarineDiesel. com phone & fax (860) 666-2184

Chris: go here http://www.ssicustomplastics.com/images/ssicatalog.pdf and look at page 10 and they have a recessed, covered engine panel that looks like what you need. maybe one for each side (instruments and autopilot). Les From: chris123 To: Cal Boats Sent: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 12:43:00 +0000 (UTC) Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4(Chris123) The PO did all the upgrades recommended by Moyer's except the electric fuel pump. Les took good care of the engine including a new head gasket and acid wash. The only issue that I see is the fuel system needs some maintenance, filter changes, new Racor filter (on the todo list) and replacement pressure bulb. The one thing I would like to replace it the gauge set as they are fist off in the wrong place, on the starboard side forward of the wheel which makes the info useless as you cannot see it, some gauges work and some don't, and the panel is rapidly decaying being a 78. Any clues on sources for replacement panels. I would like to mount the new one behind the wheel on the starboard side, and the autopilot and GPS system on port also behind the wheel. Best regards and thanks /ch On Mon, Mar 8, 2010 at 6:05 PM, david dobbs wrote: > > > > Chris, > I couldn't agree more. Nice engine, good performance. Hey, I grew up with flathead Fords. I would suggest you upgrade to electronic ignition. I used the Indigo Electronics kit, but Moyer offers one also. I had my yard replace the fuel pump and carb, and it runs like new. by the way, mechanical fuel pump. I don't like the issues with the electric ones. > > Regards, > David Dobbs, Cal29 411 > , > --- On Mon, 3/8/10, chris123 wrote: > > From: chris123 > Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank & history > To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com > Date: Monday, March 8, 2010, 10:38 AM > > > Not to quibble about engines as each has there preferred, so the following are only initial observations. When I was looking for a boat I originally spec'd a diesel for all the reasons given. However did not check into spare parts costs. Friend has a 3 cylinder yanmar down in the Rio and had to replace engine mounts, starter motor and few other things. Its normal wear an tear on a 79 Ericson 35. I was surprised how expensive all these parts were. Fuel consumption is marvelous and it does stink a bit as its an older Yanmar. > > Now flip over to the the A4 that came with my boat. Moves the boat at hull speed at around 1700 rpm if the gauge is right. (still gotta check that one) Parts are cheap and reliable, sources are plenty, I can fix most things myself as its a standard gasoline engine provided I have access to good manual (still to be purchased). The concern about exploding boats from gasoline is over rated. Saw stats somewhere that such cases are rare, "for a properly maintained, inspected and started engine" So do the pre start check religiously. If she dies the cost of replacing her in terms of parts is about half the cost of a new diesel and she drops in place. Not much to fuss with. > > So my point is Ive come to like this engine the more I get to know her and understand how she works. The only part that is disconcerting is the amount if ethanol in fuels sold locally. Even my 2001 GMC Safari has a real hard time starting when the weather is wet and the tank is low. Never had a problem with it in the coldest and wettest days up north. So now when I fill the car, and the boat tank, fuel additives are added to stabilize the fuel and it seem to work fine. > > Now if I had a bigger boat, in terms of length or displacement I don't think the A-4 would cut it. But in boats at 30 ft or less, the limited experience I have on this vessel indicates that its a fine match both in terms of performance and operating costs. > > She runs untuned, (another item on the list) at approx 1 gal/hr So the trade off is fuel costs vs maintenance costs. The solution for long distances is a 2x6 bolted to the stanchions, 2x 5 Imp gallon spare tanks to supplement the installed 11US gal tank. This gives me a range of approx 3 days at 8 hrs per day prior to filling the tanks if I'm on the engine the entire time. At an average cost of lets say 3US per gallon to be conservative this gives me a 3 dollar per hour cost at 6 miles per hour so I'm running 50 cents a mile on an untuned engine. I can live with that when I consider the costs of routine maintenance and replacement parts for a diesel. > > Again, on larger vessels, the A-4 I don't think would cut it. And if I did go for diesel it would be a Kabota once the original died unless of course it was a Perkins. I really like those, but that implies a rather large vessel which I dont see in the immediate future or anytime soon. > > Just my 2 CDN cents > > Best regards > > Chris H. > > > -- /ch ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links

can you tell me the size of the panal you are trying to replace I do have a mold of the panal from my Cal 29 and cal334 that I made myself. May be some help Dave Paulsun Allergia Cal 334 Channel Islands Ca ----- Original Message ----- From: ld… [at] comcast.net To: Cal Boats Sent: Tuesday, March 09, 2010 11:47 AM Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4(Chris123) Chris: go here http://www.ssicustomplastics.com/images/ssicatalog.pdf and look at page 10 and they have a recessed, covered engine panel that looks like what you need. maybe one for each side (instruments and autopilot). Les ----- Original Message ----- From: chris123 To: Cal Boats Sent: Tue, 9 Mar 2010 12:43:00 +0000 (UTC) Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4(Chris123) The PO did all the upgrades recommended by Moyer's except the electric fuel pump. Les took good care of the engine including a new head gasket and acid wash. The only issue that I see is the fuel system needs some maintenance, filter changes, new Racor filter (on the todo list) and replacement pressure bulb. The one thing I would like to replace it the gauge set as they are fist off in the wrong place, on the starboard side forward of the wheel which makes the info useless as you cannot see it, some gauges work and some don't, and the panel is rapidly decaying being a 78. Any clues on sources for replacement panels. I would like to mount the new one behind the wheel on the starboard side, and the autopilot and GPS system on port also behind the wheel. Best regards and thanks /ch On Mon, Mar 8, 2010 at 6:05 PM, david dobbs wrote: > > > > Chris, > I couldn't agree more. Nice engine, good performance. Hey, I grew up with flathead Fords. I would suggest you upgrade to electronic ignition. I used the Indigo Electronics kit, but Moyer offers one also. I had my yard replace the fuel pump and carb, and it runs like new. by the way, mechanical fuel pump. I don't like the issues with the electric ones. > > Regards, > David Dobbs, Cal29 411 > , > --- On Mon, 3/8/10, chris123 wrote: > > From: chris123 > Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank & history > To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com > Date: Monday, March 8, 2010, 10:38 AM > > > Not to quibble about engines as each has there preferred, so the following are only initial observations. When I was looking for a boat I originally spec'd a diesel for all the reasons given. However did not check into spare parts costs. Friend has a 3 cylinder yanmar down in the Rio and had to replace engine mounts, starter motor and few other things. Its normal wear an tear on a 79 Ericson 35. I was surprised how expensive all these parts were. Fuel consumption is marvelous and it does stink a bit as its an older Yanmar. > > Now flip over to the the A4 that came with my boat. Moves the boat at hull speed at around 1700 rpm if the gauge is right. (still gotta check that one) Parts are cheap and reliable, sources are plenty, I can fix most things myself as its a standard gasoline engine provided I have access to good manual (still to be purchased). The concern about exploding boats from gasoline is over rated. Saw stats somewhere that such cases are rare, "for a properly maintained, inspected and started engine" So do the pre start check religiously. If she dies the cost of replacing her in terms of parts is about half the cost of a new diesel and she drops in place. Not much to fuss with. > > So my point is Ive come to like this engine the more I get to know her and understand how she works. The only part that is disconcerting is the amount if ethanol in fuels sold locally. Even my 2001 GMC Safari has a real hard time starting when the weather is wet and the tank is low. Never had a problem with it in the coldest and wettest days up north. So now when I fill the car, and the boat tank, fuel additives are added to stabilize the fuel and it seem to work fine. > > Now if I had a bigger boat, in terms of length or displacement I don't think the A-4 would cut it. But in boats at 30 ft or less, the limited experience I have on this vessel indicates that its a fine match both in terms of performance and operating costs. > > She runs untuned, (another item on the list) at approx 1 gal/hr So the trade off is fuel costs vs maintenance costs. The solution for long distances is a 2x6 bolted to the stanchions, 2x 5 Imp gallon spare tanks to supplement the installed 11US gal tank. This gives me a range of approx 3 days at 8 hrs per day prior to filling the tanks if I'm on the engine the entire time. At an average cost of lets say 3US per gallon to be conservative this gives me a 3 dollar per hour cost at 6 miles per hour so I'm running 50 cents a mile on an untuned engine. I can live with that when I consider the costs of routine maintenance and replacement parts for a diesel. > > Again, on larger vessels, the A-4 I don't think would cut it. And if I did go for diesel it would be a Kabota once the original died unless of course it was a Perkins. I really like those, but that implies a rather large vessel which I dont see in the immediate future or anytime soon. > > Just my 2 CDN cents > > Best regards > > Chris H. > > > -- /ch ------------------------------------ Yahoo! Groups Links

Gerald, you really touched a nerve there. I'm sure we all prefer the smell of the sails. How do the diesels stack up regarding ease of maintenance? --- In Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com, Donald Dutton <dnlddttn@...> wrote: > > My Yanmar 3GM does not smell at all even dead down wind! > > Donald Dutton, Cal 33-2, "Quantum Evolution" > > > "Twenty Years from now, you will be more disappointed by the things you didn't do than by the things you did do. So throw off the bowlines. Sail away from the safe harbor. Catch the trade winds in your sails. Explore. Dream. Discover." ........Mark Twain > > > > > ________________________________ > From: Joe DeMers <jedsail@...> > To: Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com > Sent: Mon, March 8, 2010 6:32:07 AM > Subject: Re: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank & history > > > The Atomic 4 was designed by the Universal Motor Co as a marine > engine. The Jeep engine was similar in design, [ flat head 4 ] but a > different engine, developed by a different company, for a much > different application. > > Atomic 4 engines are MUCH smellier than a modern diesel Jerry! > The new diesels burn VERY cleanly, and are very stingy with fuel. > > Joe DeMers - owner > Sound Marine Diesel LLCSoundMarineDiesel. com > phone & fax (860) 666-2184 > On 3/8/2010 2:47 AM, Gerald Sobel wrote: > > > > > >I've always had the suspicion that the A4 engine was the > >same engine in the WWII Jeep. > >>Or did it come from a WWII lifeboat launch? > >>I always thought the description of it as "atomic" was pretty hilarious > >since it is an antiquated flat head design. > >>They do have a nice, comforting sound when they run, and aren't smelly > >like diesels are. > >>Jerry > > > >>--- On Sun, 3/7/10, chris123 <chris.herrnberger@ gmail.com> >wrote: > > > > > >>>>From: chris123 <chris.herrnberger@ gmail.com> > >>>>Subject: [Cal_Boats] A4 Hand Crank > >>>>To: Cal_Boats@yahoogrou ps.com > >>>>Date: Sunday, March 7, 2010, 7:43 PM > >> > >> > >> > >>Given my recent electrical issues, it would be good to > >>have a hand > >>>>crank for a later model A-4, Anyone have an extra one or know where I > >>>>could find one. Moyers does not sell these. > >> > >>>>Best regards and thanks > >> > >>>>-- > >>>>/ch > >> > > > > > >No virus found in this incoming message. > >Checked by AVG - www.avg.com > >Version: 9.0.733 / Virus Database: 271.1.1/2728 - Release Date: 03/07/10 02:34:00 > > > > > > -- > > Joe DeMers - owner > Sound Marine Diesel LLCSoundMarineDiesel. com > phone & fax (860) 666-2184 >

Chris: I installed a new panel for my engine instruments a few weeks ago. Mine was a 1978 original and cracked beyond use too. I took the old one to TAP Plastics and they fabricated a new one for $130. I bought new, off-the-shelf, gauges from my local Westerbeke dealer. Picture at: http://tinyurl.com/yfsuybd Cheers, Danny --- In Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com, chris123 <chris.herrnberger@...> wrote: > > The PO did all the upgrades recommended by Moyer's except the electric > fuel pump. Les took good care of the engine including a new head > gasket and acid wash. The only issue that I see is the fuel system > needs some maintenance, filter changes, new Racor filter (on the todo > list) and replacement pressure bulb. > > The one thing I would like to replace it the gauge set as they are > fist off in the wrong place, on the starboard side forward of the > wheel which makes the info useless as you cannot see it, some gauges > work and some don't, and the panel is rapidly decaying being a 78. > > Any clues on sources for replacement panels. I would like to mount the > new one behind the wheel on the starboard side, and the autopilot and > GPS system on port also behind the wheel. > > Best regards and thanks > > /ch <SNIP>

Yup good source.Many thanks. Also can use one of there storage systems to fill the existing cavity left by the old panel as its a good place to store stuff, and that big hole already exists. Water tightness in the cockpit is a nice thing, hence I've considered relocating both the AC connector (to the cabin side next to the former chart table which is being converted to the main electrical station, and telephone port (complete removal as not needed) to seal up the cockpit and make it nice and water tight. Once there is a budget of course...:) I like the idea of have one on each side as well as you pointed out. BTW....cleaning the boat today I came across the binder that had all the pics on the ceiling work that you complete. Studied them for a few minutes and then realized how much work it was. The results are worth it however as it remains totally functional, bright and clean solution that really dresses up the boat. Nice job.. Best regards and thanks /ch

URL error document not found. .......oooops...:) Question: flush mount or recessed. /ch On Wed, Mar 10, 2010 at 11:01 AM, Danny <db… [at] easystreet.net> wrote: > > > Chris: > > I installed a new panel for my engine instruments a few weeks ago. Mine was > a 1978 original and cracked beyond use too. I took the old one to TAP > Plastics and they fabricated a new one for $130. I bought new, > off-the-shelf, gauges from my local Westerbeke dealer. > > Picture at: http://tinyurl.com/yfsuybd > > Cheers, > > Danny > > > --- In Ca… [at] yahoogroups.com <Cal_Boats%40yahoogroups.com>, chris123 > <chris.herrnberger@...> wrote: > > > > The PO did all the upgrades recommended by Moyer's except the electric > > fuel pump. Les took good care of the engine including a new head > > gasket and acid wash. The only issue that I see is the fuel system > > needs some maintenance, filter changes, new Racor filter (on the todo > > list) and replacement pressure bulb. > > > > The one thing I would like to replace it the gauge set as they are > > fist off in the wrong place, on the starboard side forward of the > > wheel which makes the info useless as you cannot see it, some gauges > > work and some don't, and the panel is rapidly decaying being a 78. > > > > Any clues on sources for replacement panels. I would like to mount the > > new one behind the wheel on the starboard side, and the autopilot and > > GPS system on port also behind the wheel. > > > > Best regards and thanks > > > > /ch > <SNIP> > > > -- /ch