Runaway is an extended Formula 33 owned by Auckland engineer and businessman Mike Smith, who has spent the past fourteen years steadily and carefully bringing her up to date.
Since Mike took ownership, virtually every system on board has been progressively renewed. Electrical, plumbing, and other internal infrastructure that ages out on older boats has all been replaced. His engineering instincts led him to pursue something more ambitious than a straightforward refit. A hull extension and enlarged cabin were added under his direction, taking Runaway from her original 33-foot length to 38 feet as she sits today. The result is one of the most spacious and practical examples of the Formula 33 hull you are likely to find.
The one area that had yet to receive attention was propulsion. The original Hino 250hp engine had soldiered on through everything, but it was well overdue for retirement. Mike wanted more than a straight swap. His goal was to unlock what the hull was genuinely capable of, which meant a complete propulsion overhaul covering the engine, gearbox, propeller shaft, and propeller. The appetite for substantially more power made that level of change unavoidable. After weighing up a range of engine options, he made contact with Onshore Marine to explore what the FPT range might offer.
Jake Wilknson from Onshore Marine explains what happened next. "We knew straight away the ideal engine for Mike would be the 6L engine from FPT. We've got many examples of this engine in the field and it provides exceptionally smooth power and high torque delivery and is great value for money and an ideal repower choice."
Mike's own assessment is equally positive. "I've found the engine package has completely met my expectations and have been very happy with the whole experience. It was great getting a complete turnkey package from one supplier who could also carry out the installation with factory backup and support. The boat is much faster, smoother and Im very happy with the performance and fuel economy of the engine."
He acknowledges the project demanded considerable effort to reach this point, but feels the outcome has been well worth it. Runaway is a good example of a classic Kiwi hull brought up to date with modern engineering and technology. The repower package comprised an FPT N60 engine, a ZF Vee-drive Gearbox, a Simrad Helm Panel, and a Flexball fly-by-wire helm lever.
The FPT N60 has an interesting lineage. It was originally supplied to Cummins as a long block forming the basis of their widely used 6BT. FPT has since advanced the engine considerably, adding Bosch common rail fuel injection and electronic control to bring the benefits of modern technology to a well-proven design.
All installation and engineering work was completed by the team at Onshore Marine Engineering. Jake and Josh can be reached on 0279112911. The New Zealand importer and distributor of FPT marine engines is Marine and Industrial Power, and Adrian Penman can be contacted on 0272131495.
