Can I fit a new Universal diesel with a V drive gearbox in place of an Atomic Four with a V drive gear?
The latest (August 1991) “Universal Atomic Four Parts List” states on page 2: “Repowering to Diesel… – direct drive (5101) limited modifications – reduction drive (5102) additional work – bedding – V drive (5103) considerable work re-bedding due to V drive angle: Walters 22 degrees vs Hurth 15 degrees There is no direct replacement diesel” The Atomic Four installation manual specified an optimum engine installation angle of 7 degrees (because a V drive engine is mounted backwards that means 7 degrees sloping down towards the bow from horizontal). Most sailboat installations are around 7 degrees. Although the Parts List states the V angle is 22 degrees, the service manual and installation manual states the V angle is 24 degrees (for the Atomic Four and all other engines fitted with a Walter V drive). Assuming the engine is mounted at 7 degrees, the angle of the propeller shaft, AND THEREFORE THE ANGLE OF THE STERN TUBE GLASSED INTO THE HULL AS WELL AS THE PROP SHAFT BRACKET/CUTLASS BE
