Fuel economy figures - 2000 Sundancer 290 w/ T-5.0L

mvoellinger

Member
Aug 26, 2008
618
Jacksonville, FL
Boat Info
2002 260DA
Engines
350 MAG w/ Bravo III
Hey everyone,

I put my 176 up for sale yesterday and my broker immediately called me and found a 290 Sundancer for me. I had told him 240/260 Sundancer in the $30,000 range, but this was only slightly more (I could get it for about $35k). My only concern is the economy of the boat - it has twin 5.0L vs the likely single 5.0 of the 240. Of course with the increased economy, I pick up the wider beam for better sea handling and the addition of a genny so I can run the A/C while on the hook hanging out. So my question is, what are the typical GPH rates of a 5.0L? And anyone with this specific configuration have any comments? With the 176 a typical day would be just cruising around at 30mph all day. I think with the 290 it would be more of a destination boat - most days being less than 60 miles round trip. I currently get about 4 mpg, which I know is wishful thinking with twins but what can I epexct for speeds, gph, range, etc.

Thanks!
 
Hey there....congrats on moving up!!

The most important thing here to consider is the completely different handling situation you will be in with a twin screw boat. It is absolutely night and day, specially around the docks! The added control and maneuverability is huge!

I would suggest seeing if you can sea trial either the one the broker is talking about or a friend's. You might find that you love it enough to not care about the added fuel consumption!

As far as fuel economy goes you will be less than half of your current boat. The bigger boat, bigger added engine, etc. all equate to alot more weight. I had a 2004 300DA with Twin 5.0s turning Bravo IIIs. At cruise (28-29 mph) I'd burn about 26 gallons per hour equating to just over 1 mpg. Run her with half fuel, no water on board, empty holding tank, not too much gear, only two people on board, and most of all perfect trim and you should be able to goose her to closer to 1.25 -1.40 mpg.

But again, twins are so different than single screws. You just might get hooked!!

Good luck!!
 
Good luck on the new boat.
I have a very similar set up to what your asking about with the exception of the 5.0, I have the 5.7's. I burn approx 26 GPH loaded heavy. Full fuel, water, lot's of clothes, dingy and outboard on the back.
Something else to consider is what drives are on it, I have Bravo 3's which I would believe give me a little better economy over Alpha's or Bravo 1 or 2's. Not positive but would think counter rotating would help.
Fuel is not cheap, but you gotta pay to play, and the 290 DA is a really great boat
 

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