Yanmar and Armstrong Join Forces Creating a Cool Powering Option
Looking to repower? Thinking about a conversion from gasoline to diesel? Check this out, It seems a really cool concept. Off the top of my head, about the only question I have is how you balance out the weight by moving that diesel engine all the way aft. But, considering how much a new big block outboard engine weighs, my concerns are probably unfounded. I’ve got to believe the folks at Yanmar have already figured this one out. Can’t wait to see this one in person. The company says to expect it to be on display at some of the fall shows.
Armstrong Nautical Products of Stuart, Florida, and Yanmar America Corporation of Adairsville, Georgia, have introduced the AYM (Armstrong Yanmar Marine) bolt-on diesel bracket. The bracket can be installed in place of a normal outboard bracket, replace an existing sterndrive or straight shaft inboard, or be specified for a factory-built boat. It’s available with a variety of Yanmar diesel sterndrive propulsion packages from 180 hp to 370 hp, in single or twin configurations.
The Armstrong bracket is designed to provide strength and buoyancy when coupled with Yanmar’s lightweight, high-performance diesel engine packages. It results in superior reliability and durability with diesel engine fuel economy, and according to published data, will significantly extend the cruising range.
The first boat to get this package is a Parker 2530 extended cabin, powered with a 260 hp Yanmar 6BY2-260. It’s coupled to a Yanmar ZT350 hydraulic clutch sterndrive, known for its smooth and quiet shift characteristics.
Tom Watson, Marine Division Manager at Yanmar America, explains, “The AYM bracket adds buoyancy aft while lowering the engine’s center of gravity. This adds to the vessel’s stability. Armstrong’s unique bracket design increases the boat and motor combination efficiencies, enhancing the great performance for which both brands are already known.”
The extension of the bracket results in additional unobstructed deck space, something owners don’t get with outboard installations. Also, the engine noise is moved completely aft.
