How To Sail A NautiCat 44
HOW TO USE THE MACHINERY
By and by you will learn that there is a certain speed range where the engine “feels” right, due to its specific vibration. With the comfort of the engine and the crew in mind we recommend speeds between 1750-1950 RPM.
| RPM | Speed (knots) | Fuel consumption/h (litres) | Fuel consumption/h (GB gal) | Fuel consumption/h (US gal) | Relative consumption 1/M |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 900 | 5.0 | 1.5 | 1.3 | 1.00 | |
| 1200 | 6.8 | 5.6 | 1.5 | 1.7 | 0.99 |
| 1500 | 7.5 | 8.4 | 1.9 | 2.2 | 0.99 |
| 1800 | 8.5 | 13.0 | 2.9 | 3.4 | 1.20 |
| RPM | Knots | Burn Rate (gallons per minute) |
|---|---|---|
| 900 | 5 | 1 - 1.3 |
| 1200 | 6.8 | 1 - 1.5 |
| 1500 | 7.5 | 2 - 2.2 |
| 1800 | 8 | 2.1 - 2.5 |
| 2100 | 8.5 | 3 - 3.4 |
The table is based on the tests we have undertaken with the proto-type. No two engines perform exactly the same, but the facts above should give you an idea of how much fuel your yacht is likely to need.
Do not run the engine on maximal revs. i.e. about 2300 – 2400 revs. with a standard propeller. This will increase the boat speed only 0.25 knots in relation to 2000 – 2100 revs, but raise fuel consumption very high. At 2000 – 2100 the fuel consumption is still reasonable. At a speed of 9.5 knots it is almost optimal.
When switching from forward to reverse, or vice versa, make it a rule to wait about one second in neutral before changing gears. This procedure diminishes the strain on the entire power transmission, since the propeller shaft can slow down before the gear makes it rotate in the opposite direction. Do not use more than 1700 revs, when reversing.
When in port, after a long trip let the engine run on idle for about five minutes to let the temperature and lube oil circulation settle. Always remember to turn the propeller shaft greaser.