Diesel to Electric Outboard Motor Conversion - Cape Dory 36 Refit Part 2

We remove the diesel engine and build a custom outboard well locker in the enlarged lazarette to hold an ePropulsion Navy EVO 6.0 electric outboard motor. The electric motor can be swapped out for a Tohatsu 9.8HP gas motor if longer range is needed for extended trips up the east coast ICW or transiting the Panama Canal or as backup in case any of the components of the electric system fail when out cruising away from replacement parts. This system is not a comparable replacement for the ample propulsion of a large diesel engine. It is a low-powered, short-range alternative that requires a higher level of patience and seamanship skills. The 6kw electric outboard is advertised as 10hp gas equivalent but in case it doesn't live up to expectations or proves unreliable we have the gas outboard option. And since the electric motor's large 48 volt battery can directly charge the smaller 12 volt house battery, it provides enlarged battery capacity even when the gas motor is installed.

We also converted from wheel steering to a simple tiller. We reversed the slope of the cockpit footwell so that it drains aft above the waterline, which eliminates two more seacocks. And we added 210 lbs of lead ballast to the bilge to compensate for loss of weight from the inboard diesel.

People often ask me if a tilting outboard well is suitable for their particular boat. Unfortunately, the geometry of most boats won’t allow it. The boat needs to have a large lazarette locker, an overhanging transom, and certain minimum dimensions between the transom and the tiller head strap on top the rudder shaft. Or if you have wheel steering, suitable clearance between transom and emergency tiller. You can read more about my outboard well design at: https://atomvoyages.com/articles/the-improved-outboard-well/

Update: 12 July 2023 Here is the latest video showing the results of initial sea trials with both motors: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=OVXGSDtYFhw

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