mileage

[cmcbob]

we have a 1978 srv24 with a new 350 in it ,hasnt been in water yet ,we are planing a trip on tn river this spring knox tn to paducah ky about 700 mi ,and we need to plan for gas expiense, we dont plan on speeding and not sure if we can get better mileage if we get up on plaine or not ,
if any body has taken this trip we would love to her how it was and any tips ,thanks bob &betty

 

[nlain]

Re: mileage

I think you would get better response to your question if you posted it here: Boating, Activities and Destinations


Now I will say that most marine engines have a sweet spot somewhere in the 3000 to 3500 rpm range, your fuel mileage will be better in this range, you just need to fine where your spot is. Boat fuel consumption is figured in gallons per hour, then converted to miles traveled at the speed your rpm sweet spot is at. You are probably going to have to make several runs in the rpm range to find where the sweet spot is for your boat,engine, outdrive and normal load combination. Hope this helps a little.

 

[kmarine]

Re: mileage

The average fuel consumption for a boat of your size with a 350 is about 3to 4 mpg at 3000 to 3500 rpm If you have a hand held gps you may want to try a test ride to check your boat. Lets say 4500 rpm most boats would average 2 to 3 mpg. Every boat is different and how much gear you take with and number of people will effect fuel consumption. I like to factor 25% extra fuel for safty. say 700 mi / 3mpg is roughly 234 gallons X$4 gal say $936 rounded up to $1000

 

[magster65]

Re: mileage

Your best "mileage" will be idling along under 1300 rpm. Your best "normal" cruise should be 3000 - 3200 rpm and your fuel burn will be about 11-12 gph... and I'll guess 25 mph.
My guess would be about 300 gallons (x $4 = $1200) if you plane the whole way... which is unlikely. The good news is the more time you spend idling along enjoying the scenery, the more money you'll save on fuel.

There's more to consider... are there any currents on that river? Must be...
This is a huge potential for saving fuel. Rivers flow fastest in the center and slower at the shoreline (called laminar flow). If you're running against the current, run near the shoreline and if you're going with it, run in the center.

If it were me I'd run against the current near the shore (at a safe distance of course) at 3200 rpm. Running with the current I'd run dead center of the river and 1300rpm. This will bring the fuel costs way down!

Hope this helps!

It sounds like a great trip... be safe and have fun!!

 

[cmcbob]

Re: mileage

thanks for all the info ,we are planning on a slow boat ride ,as much for gas as for what were going for ,getting away and enjoying the scenery on the shore .