New to boating. Trying to establish operating costs for a `99 Sundancer 290 Twin 5.0

[George Clarke]

I am currently looking at a `99 Sundancer 290 and I want to make sure I go in with my eyes wide open. What kind of fuel consumption can I expect at cruising speed with the twin 5.0 Mercs? When cruising around the harbour, can you run on just one engine for fuel economy?

 

[DPF]

Re: New to boating. Trying to establish operating costs for a `99 Sundancer 290 Twin

I can't speak on behalf of your 29 but if it helps I have a 32' with twin 350 with v drive trans and i get 25 to 27 GPH cruising around 23 to 25 mph acording to the smart craft computer. There has been a several threads on this subject that you might want to look at. As far as using one engine i feel if this is a problem, you should probably buy a single engine 26 or 27' and forget running around in a twin with only one engine. A lot has to be taken into consideration running one engine for starters is the engines interconnected to keep the bearings cool if the props spins on the engine left off. Control of the boat, Electronics and so on. I would consult a mechanic.There also are several good people on this site if they respond.

 

[rcknecht]

Re: New to boating. Trying to establish operating costs for a `99 Sundancer 290 Twin

I would budget $8 to 12K per year to be safe... More if you use it more than 75 hours a year... Slip fees, winterization, maintenance, fuel, and the unknown...

 

[George Clarke]

Re: New to boating. Trying to establish operating costs for a `99 Sundancer 290 Twin

I have budgeted 12k a year based on 70hrs. use, so it sounds like I am in the ball park. What are some of the major servicings / maintainance issues and timelines I should expect. I understand manifolds and risers every 3-4 years, is that correct?