Poor Fuel Efficiency

[bill orem]

I just bought a 1995 Regal 182 bowrider with a 140hp volvo Penta 3.0L HO with a 2bbl carb. With 4 people in the boat I can run about 75 miles on a tank of gas. Is this normal? If so is there anything I can do to improve it? I'm used to a 120hp Mercrusier in a Chris Craft where I could cruise most of the day on a tank of fuel. Of course the Chris Craft was 1450lbs and the Regal is 2250. <br /><br />Also, is there anything I can do to increase the HP? (add a larger can and carb? If the engine had more power, it might be more efficient,do you think?

 

[achris]

Re: Poor Fuel Efficiency

How big is the tank? If is say, 50 gallons I'd say you have a problem. But if it's only around 15-20 gallons I'd say it's ok.<br /><br />The best and most efficient way to increase power it to pull the engine out and get a bigger one. Sorry, but that's it in a nutshell.<br /><br />Chris........

 

[RomanRegal]

Re: Poor Fuel Efficiency

Hi, <br />Boats are not fuel efficient. There are many posts that address the matter. I have a Regal, 1987 24ft cabin cruiser. Running at 3500 rpm, I am lucky to get a mile or better per gallon. Some of the larger engines burn gallons per miles, not miles per gallon.<br />Roman

 

[Doug Durako]

Re: Poor Fuel Efficiency

Boats are rated in gallons per hour.<br /><br />You should burn 3 to 4 gallons per hour at normal crusing speed.<br /><br />Multiply usage by 2 (6 to 8 gallons per hour) if you are pulling tubes or skis, or running balls to the wall WOT.