Single vs. Twin Engines

There are many differences between single and twin engine boats. So, let’s talk about a particular Cobalt model that is available in both versions. We will use the R30 and for this discussion we will use the single 430-hp Volvo Penta Duoprop sterndrive versus twin 300-hp versions. Although this piece is aimed at the R30, most comments will apply to other Cobalts with twin engines as well.

Throttle/Shift Control is Different for Twins

There are two levers controlling the shift/throttle functions. But there is a button on the twin control you can push to convert the twin-engine control to a single lever running both engines as one. When both engines are in neutral, push that button and you will hear a chirp. This indicates the system is ready to operate both engines as one.

Simply push the starboard lever back which moves it out of the way. Then the port engine lever — the one closest to the driver — will shift and throttle both engines at the same time. This is a particularly nice feature for the novice driver who would rather not have to use both levers. This feature is an option so you will need to check with your dealer to see if your boat has this or not.

Fuel Consumption, Top-End Performance and Low-End Performance

First of all, it does NOT take twice the fuel at a given speed to run the twin engines. For example, at 30 mph, the twin version will use about 25-30% more fuel than the single. At lower speeds, the percentage difference lowers somewhat. At higher speeds, it increases slightly.

One benefit of the twins is torque. Torque is more important than horsepower for getting the boat to its planing speed of approximately 24 mph with twins. With two engines, the boat produces more torque and the result is better time to plane, especially with the boat fully loaded.

Top-end performance is a result of horsepower. With a total of 600 hp compared to 430 hp, the boat is going to go faster with more horsepower. So, the total fuel burn at WOT (Wide Open Throttle) is going to be more with the twin. Hence, more speed.

One main advantage of the twins is maneuverability at slow speeds. You can use both engines as one propulsion system by operating both throttle/shift levers as one. Or you can use the throttle/shift levers independently of each other. When doing this, first position the steering wheel to the approximate center position. Then the operator can put one engine in forward and the other in reverse and the boat will basically spin in place. Keep in mind this should be done at idle speeds. To learn how to do this, try it in open water until you get used to the reaction of the boat. With practice, you’ll find what works best for you.

Another advantage of twins is safety. If one engine fails, you can idle home on the other. You cannot go fast with just one engine but you will have power steering and you will be able to control the boat. With one 300 hp engine running, for example, you can make about 10 mph. In this situation, give yourself plenty of space for maneuvering. It is a good idea to call the dock ahead of time so help is available when you arrive.

Optional Joystick Controls for Twins

A twin-engine boat with a joystick is a popular option. If your boat has it, there will be a second controller directly behind the throttle/shifter control. The joystick lets the operator maneuver the boat at low speed more easily than with the throttle/shift levers.

On the joystick, there is a button that energizes the system. Make sure both shift/throttle levers are in the neutral position. You will hear a chirp when the system is activated. The steering wheel will lock in place and the system is ready to use.

Gently move the stick in the direction you want the boat to go. The reaction to the movement of the Joystick will not be immediate. You have to allow the system to “catch up.” Most first-time users do not understand this and move the joystick too far and then the engines will build too much rpm and the boat will move too much or too fast. It is suggested the first time you use this system, you do so in open water with plenty of space around the boat.

Once you get familiar with the system, you will love it and use it just about every time you maneuver the boat in close quarters. Keep in mind, wind will influence the boat’s movement and you compensate with more movement of the joystick. When operating the system, if you move either of the throttle/shift levers or move the steering wheel, the system deactivates instantly and you are back to normal operation.

Additionally, on the joystick control, there is a second button for additional thrust. This would be used when a stronger wind is blowing and gives the operator the ability to produce more engine rpm and more thrust than in the regular joy stick mode.

The same feature is available on MerCruiser powered boats. It is called Axius and the functions are the same. The main difference is with Merc’s, you simply put the shift/throttle levers in neutral and then use the stick control.

Battery Switches

In newer boats, with twins, there are two battery switches, one per engine. Simply turn both to the “On” position. The Cobalt electrical system will automatically charge the house battery with port engine. When you turn the engines off, the system keeps the engine batteries isolated from the boat so you have a fully charged battery for restarting the engines.

If you have an older twin engine Cobalt with either Joystick or Axius, the battery switches may be different and have more selections. Simply follow the plaque by the switches for proper battery alignment. And as always, please check with your Cobalt dealer for more detail about these switches or anything else discussed here.