Chrysler Sailors Forum

Did the 26 ever come with an inboard diesel? I've spent some time searching and have found nothing so I am guessing not. There is one in AZ that has one in it, the price is cheap enough now that the drive could be worth it?

The 1977 brochuse listed an option of "Yanmar 8-hp. diesel (1-cyl.) inboard with remote controls, fuel tank." along with the Sailor outboards..

Also listed one I'd love to have an original for "Canvas dodger curtains for cockpit area. "

When I was searching for my boat I talked to a fellow who had the inboard diesel with sail drive. Ultimately I decided I wasn't willing to give up the interior space.

I've got a '78 with the Volvo MD5A (7 hp. single) through a Volvo Penta 110s saildrive. I haven't splashed the boat yet but do have the engine in good running shape.
It does use up lots of interior room but I like the idea of the convenience of turning the key and motoring without leaving my position at the helm! Plus the transom sure looks purty without 100 lbs. of iron hanging off it.
I've removed the stock galley and started rebuilding it on the port side aft of the head to improve access to the diesel for servicing. With the galley where it was the engine was only accessible from the stbd. side.
Rudder response should be good too with the saildrive pushing water over the rudder from a few inches away!

Thanks all for the input.

Monty - could you post some pictures of the engine area? The boat is in Arizona, I'm in Minnesota and the owner is less that helpful.

Photos please...we love photos!

when my C-26 was made it was listed as diesel but an outboard. I think I found an outboard a 15 hp long shaft 2 stroke Johnson and I may be able to tilt without modifying mount.