Originally a 1937 sardine fishing boat, the Western Flyer became an iconic research vessel before returning to fishing service once more. Nearly 90 years later, the Western Flyer has been repowered with a state-of-the-art hybrid system centered around a John Deere 6135AFM85 marine propulsion engine — and is again a marine research craft.
Called “the most famous research vessel to ever have sailed,” the Western Flyer was chartered by John Steinbeck and Ed Ricketts for their 1940 Gulf of California expedition, which was chronicled in Steinbeck’s “The Log from the Sea of Cortez”. After surviving two sinkings, the iconic boat was restored by marine geologist John Gregg.
The centerpiece of the restoration is a John Deere 6135AFM85 marine engine (425 hp @ 1900 rpm). Paul Tate, the Western Flyer’s captain, noted the need for a Tier 3-compliant engine that would be compatible with a hybrid propulsion system. The hybrid system allows for primarily diesel-powered operation with the option of switching to electric power to minimize noise — which is crucial for marine studies.
Regional John Deere distributor Cascade Engine Center collaborated with Snow & Company to integrate the 13.5L engine, which was chosen for its reliability, efficiency, compact design, and power density. The engine also drives a generator for the boat’s electrical systems, charging battery banks that power the electric motor and onboard equipment.
The revitalized Western Flyer should have many more decades of service in its future!
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