After months of hard work and dedication, we’re excited to announce that Tangaroa’s Cummins repower is officially complete! This has been one of the most transformative projects in the boat’s history, and it marks the beginning of a new era for our 78’ aluminum trawler.

From Detroit Diesel to Cummins Power

Tangaroa originally ran on Detroit Diesel 12V71 engines, known for their raw power but also for their fuel-thirsty habits. While they served us well, we knew it was time for a change. The new Cummins engines not only bring a boost in efficiency but have significantly reduced our fuel consumption from a hefty 9 gallons per hour down to just 4.5 gallons per hour! This massive improvement will be crucial for our long voyages, allowing us to travel further with less fuel and more reliability.

Hybrid Dry/Wet Exhaust System

With the engine swap came the need for a new exhaust system. We decided to install a hybrid dry/wet exhaust to better manage temperature and performance. This new system is designed for both efficiency and safety, with the exhaust pipes now exiting through the side of the boat instead of through the stack. It’s a key part of keeping Tangaroa running smoothly and staying cool under pressure.

Custom Fuel System

We also took the opportunity to design and install a custom fuel system that works perfectly with our new Cummins engines. This new setup ensures that fuel is delivered efficiently and safely, optimizing the performance of the engines and keeping everything running as smoothly as possible.

Bottom Paint and Hull Overhaul

As part of the repower, we also gave Tangaroa’s hull some much-needed attention. After removing all the old paint from the hull and superstructure, we applied a fresh layer of bottom paint to protect against corrosion and marine growth. The hull is now ready to take on long journeys in challenging conditions, keeping Tangaroa in top shape as we prepare for our upcoming voyages.

A New Era for Tangaroa

The Cummins repower isn’t just about new engines – it’s about the evolution of Tangaroa. From the fuel system overhaul to the new exhaust system and the fresh bottom paint, we’ve taken the time to ensure that every piece of the puzzle fits perfectly. This transformation will make Tangaroa more efficient, reliable, and ready for the adventures that lie ahead.

As we sail into the next chapter of Tangaroa’s journey, we’re excited to share these improvements with you. Whether it's our efficiency gains, the smoother ride, or the overall performance boost, Tangaroa is now better equipped than ever for the long voyage from Victoria, BC to Japan via Siberia and beyond.

Stay tuned for more updates and videos documenting this incredible journey!