May 2026 Updates
Kia ora team,
As winter refit season approaches, we're focused on keeping you supported on the ground. This month, I’m incredibly proud to welcome two new dealers to our network: Armada Marine in Napier and BW Palmer in Westport, bringing expert service closer to you.
In this issue, we check out the bulletproof Yanmar-powered custom launch Malolō, a 38ft tender running twin Cox 300s, and Smartgyro's offshore performance. We also tackle the folding vs. feathering prop debate and share a quick YANMAR Partner Portal reminder.
Have a read, and as always, reach out if you need a hand!
Dave Low
Power Equipment NZ
New Dealers: Armada Marine & BW Palmer
We're stoked to welcome two exceptional new partners to the Power Equipment NZ network. In Napier, Armada Marine brings their expert, no-shortcuts approach to our marine division, officially representing Yanmar, Mase, and Gori for Hawke’s Bay boaties.
On the West Coast, Westport engineering experts BW Palmer Ltd join us to champion our Yanmar, John Deere, and Eniquest industrial ranges. Whether you’re on the water or the worksite, we've got you covered!
Image credit: Boating NZ
Bulletproof Power:
Yanmar 6LPA Stars in Custom Classic Malolō
When mechanical engineer Brent Metson needed the ultimate reliable powerplant for his custom 10.6m launch, Malolō, his choice was definitive: the Yanmar 6LPA 315hp straight-six. Featured recently in Boating NZ, this stunning 1930s-inspired vessel was built around a strict “keep it simple” philosophy. Making the mechanically governed, non-electronic Yanmar the perfect heart for the project.
Chosen for its legendary robust block and incredibly smooth harmonics, this 315hp workhorse effortlessly pushes the five-tonne hull to a sweat-free 22-knot cruise while sipping just 1.34 litres per nautical mile. It’s a brilliant real-world showcase of why the Yanmar 6LPA remains the go-to engine for boaties who demand uncompromising performance and true peace of mind on the water.
Cox Diesel Power for Premium Tender Builds
A good example of Cox diesel outboards in action comes from this 38ft aluminium superyacht tender, powered by twin Cox 300s. Built for the demands of tender work, the setup delivers strong performance, excellent fuel efficiency, and the kind of low-end torque that makes a difference when manoeuvring and running at speed. With a top speed of 34 knots, it’s a solid all-round package for reliable, efficient transfers. The install was completed by Francis Marine (on Sydney’s Northern Beaches), and highlights the importance of getting the setup right from the outset.
Smartgyro in Action: Real-World High Performance
Smartgyro is gaining fans around the world, and it’s easy to see why. In this video, competitive fishing team Team Rising Son, based out of Alabama, USA, share their experience installing the Smartgyro SG80 on their 58ft Viking, and how it’s performing offshore. The team competes on the Sport Fishing Championship (SFC) Gulf Division circuit, an elite, televised tournament series featuring some of the top crews in the game. It’s a good real-world look at why gyro stabilisation is becoming an increasingly important part of serious offshore setups.
Folding vs Feathering Props - Things to Keep In Mind
I’ve been having quite a few conversations lately around prop selection, particularly the shift from feathering to folding props. Quick overview:
Feathering props rotate flat blades to reduce drag
Folding props use curved blades that fold back when not in use
Simple difference, but it has a real impact on performance.
Why Folding Props Keep Coming Up
Modern folding props have come a long way and, for most recreational setups, they’re now a really solid all-round option. Key selling points:
Lower drag under sail
More consistent performance across the rev range
Less complexity and maintenance
GORI 3-Blade — A Good Example
The GORI 3-blade folding prop offers this combination of efficiency, control, and innovation.
Same pitch forward and reverse, so more predictable handling
Good control at low speed, especially around marinas
Doesn’t need high revs to engage in reverse
Optional overdrive for more efficient cruising
Correct Propeller Sizing Matters
Regardless of vessel type, correct propeller sizing is critical.
Regardless of vessel type, correct propeller sizing is critical. A properly matched propeller should allow the engine to reach maximum RPM within plus or minus 5 percent. Outside of this range, performance, efficiency, and engine longevity can all be negatively affected.
YANMAR Partner Portal – Important Registration Reminder
A quick reminder (if you haven’t already) to complete your registration for the new YANMAR Partner Portal. The portal is now live and plays an important role in improving day-to-day operations, particularly around transparency, efficiency, and communication.
We’ve added short user guides to each section in the top menu. These walk you through how to navigate and use the portal correctly and efficiently.
Boat & Product Registration
You can now access step-by-step guidance within the portal on how to register boats and products, making the process clearer and more consistent.
What’s New in Maintenance
There are a couple of useful updates in the Maintenance section:
You can now easily see if there’s an active service campaign within the set detail view
Once maintenance is completed and the engine or drive type is entered, any relevant campaign information will display automatically
Improved Maintenance Overview
Yanmar has also made updates to improve the overall user experience.
To add a new service record:
Go to Maintenance
Select Maintenance Overview
Click Create New Maintenance
Complete the required fields and save
These changes are designed to make service registration quicker and more intuitive.
Why Accurate Registration Matters
Keeping records up to date is important across:
Product registration
Engine details
Maintenance history
Accurate information helps with:
Faster, smoother warranty processing
Better visibility of service history
More efficient after-sales support
If you need any assistance please feel free to reach out to us direct.