New Member looking for a 28TE

[tshug]

Hello All,

I'm a new member from the Boston area and I am currently looking at a 2003 28TE with an engine box. My experience has been with single ob's and have never owned or operated a boat with an inboard. The Albin is being stored inside and I won't be able to sea trial it until the end of the month. In looking at some of the posts here about docking it appears that with the 28TE it can be a little tricky and takes some experience in getting the hang of it.

In one of the posts, on how to dock your Albin, it mentions once you get lined up with your slip to turn the helm to port and leave it there and use the throttle back and forth until you are docked. From what I've read when going in stern first with the prop walk to starboard wouldn't having the helm to port when using forward throttle take the bow further off line? I'm hoping during the sea trial to get a feel for what it will be like if we purchase it.

One other question, the 28TE has a Yanmar with only 400 hours on it and has been well maintained. The timing belt has never been replaced though. Any thoughts as to when one should be replaced based on hours and age of belt?

Hoping to be a new Albin owner soon!

[RobS]

...wouldn't having the helm to port when using forward throttle take the bow further off line?

That's the intent, so the fwd thrust continues the CCW rotation of the boat, for when you want it to spin, like a twin screw.

Any thoughts as to when one should be replaced based on hours and age of belt?

The book says 5yrs/1,250hrs, most mechanics would say it's based on the engine hours, the yrs are not the deciding factor. But 10yrs, twice the recommended service life, it might be time..

[tshug]

Thanks for the info Rob. This is a great site with plenty of info for Albin owners and soon to be owners.

Ted