1987 Trojan 36 Convertible

By: Mike Burns

Trojan is a well known name in the marine industry and they have designed many popular models over the years. One such model is the 36 Convertible, which is arguably

one of the most popular production boats ever designed. It had a very successful production run from 1972 to 1989, and many of them can be found on the used boat market today. We recently took a look at an impressive 1987 model.

The 36 Convertible was built on a relatively easy riding modified-V hull, with a moderate beam of 13 feet.

Originally, this model had a two-stateroom layout, but a new layout became available in 1982. Our test boat sports this later layout, which features a single stateroom forward and a dinette off to starboard. There is ample seating for four at the dinette, and this area can also be converted into a double berth.

Across from the dinette, there is a large head that features a generous amount of storage space and a large separate shower stall.

The main salon is spacious and features a convertible sofa for additional overnight guests. The large windows allow ample light into the cabin and also allow for ease of operation of the boat from the lower helm, which was standard on this model.

While many people use this style of boat for just cruising, this model also serves as a good platform for light tackle fishing. The 75-squarefoot cockpit is spacious enough to accommodate several angles. As well, as you can see on our test model, the gunwale surrounding the cockpit has ample room to mount several downriggers.

The bridge of this model is laid out in a tournament-style fashion, with ample seating for several guests. There are two comfortable swivel chairs for the operator and one passenger, while a bench seat ahead of the console can accommodate up to three more. For ease of operation, the wheel is mounted mid ship. The dash itself is very large and can accommodate several large instruments, such as radar and a fish finder.

A variety of gas and diesel packages were offered on this model over the years. Our test model was fitted with a pair of 454-ci Crusaders, which was a relatively common engine package. This ample power put the 36 Convertible on plane in 4.8 seconds. We cruised along effortlessly at 22.8 mph at 3000 rpm, and we reached a top speed of 31.0 mph at 3800 rpm. Noticeably, the noise levels up on the bridge were relatively low. At cruising speed, the sound levels were 89 dbA, increasing only slightly to 91 dbA atWOT. Another thing to note about the sea trial is the very smooth ride that the 36 Convertible has to offer. It’s deep-V hull with a sharp entry at the bow and a generous 19.5 degrees of deadrise at the transom, make for a very comfortable ride – even in choppy conditions. With its traditional styling, ample accommodations and overall good performance, the 36 Trojan remains a popular model today. Whether you’re looking for a boat to catch the “big one” or you’re simply looking for a flybridge-style boat for comfortable cruising, you should be sure to check out this popular model.

POWER / PERFORMANCE
TEST BOAT ENGINE: Twin 454
Crusaders, V8, 350 hp, direct drive
CRUISING SPEED (RPM/MPH):
3000 / 22.8
TIME ON PLANE: 4.8 seconds
TOP SPEED (RPM/MPH):
3800 / 31.0
SOUND LEVEL AT CRUISE:
on bridge – 89 dbA
SOUND LEVEL AT WOT:
on bridge – 91 dbA