----- Original Message -----
From: PAUL
To: [email protected]
Sent: Friday, December 18, 2009 2:38 PM
Subject: [IC27A] Fuel Mileage w/ Universal 2 Cyl Diesel
Just wondering:
Anyone know what kind of fuel mileage I can expect with a 1985 Catalina with
a 2 cyl Universal Diesel? It's the 14 HP one. Thanks.
Paul
Paul,
You likely have an Universal M18 (as I do on my '84).
Fuel usage, will of course depend on a few things...
.. RPM... Running at around 2000 to 2500 rpm seems to be right on the flat
line of the performance curve as seen in the Universal Spec Manual.
As well, Injector condition, engine timing, Operation Temperature.. etc..all
will figure in Fuel consumption.
On long cruises I tend to run the RPM's high at around 2200/2400 once I get up
to normal temperature.
My engine isn't Tuned to it's most efficient.. (who's is :-) ....
So here's my take on what you might expect..
**Of course..( finally, I get to mean this..this time ) Your mileage May
Vary....... (I hate myself )...
After 13 years of lots of motoring, I always figure on 1/2 gallon plus, per
hour.
That gives a bit of "Fudging" time.
I sure don't know how some of the fellows use much less, safely.
Also, I figure a tank size of .. 10 Gallons...
Yes, Even though you, like I, probably have the OEM fuel tank which is a bit
more than 10 gallons, I think it's prudent to not burn down to the last couple
gallons.. Both for safety and Clean fuel reasons.
Figuring on that basis.. I can do 20 hours of run time, Leaving a couple more
hours ...In case of an emergency.
Then, IF... I figure a Speed Through Water (STW) average of approx ..5 knots
I plan a safe 100 NM ..cruise.
I do such a trip several times a year.
It may be a "Chicken" way of cruising, but it's worked well.
But then,,, YMMV.... ( Oh no, not again )
Ralph Ahseln
"Oblio" 1984 Std.
Lying: Portland OR
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