Are D3's considered reliable now?

[Hoblands]

Finally looking to purchase our next boat. Several on the short list but all have either twin D3 160's or twin Kad 32's. (still looking at Bavaria 29, Fairline T30 and similar) The boats with the Kad engines are older and lower priced but are they still considered the better choice or have most of the gremlins associated with the D series engines now been resolved? Can't recall seeing many complaints about them recently.

Views appreciated.

Paul

 

[spannerman]

The new D3 is a completely different motor than the early versions, the older ones have had a few campaigns to remedy faults and if they have been done and the engine maintained it should be fine, but as with all used engines check the service history and inspect it for signs of leaks, neglect etc and do a test drive don't take the sellers word for it. The KAD 32 is more bullet proof, but the D3 benefits from easier starting and cleaner running and improved economy, but by its very design its a more complicated set up so needs to be maintained properly.

 

[Momac]

I have had kad32's over 9 seasons and done about 900 hours although 700 hours in the first boat and 200 in my present boat. I have attended to regular servicing.

An intermittent starting fault which developed on the first boat proved to be a loose electrical connection.
Otherwise in both my first and present boat the engines start easily with no throttle. I have confidence in the kad32's.

.

 

[Hoblands]

Many thanks for the replies. We are viewing some boats next Friday. Sure I'll be back to extract further knowledge from the forum!

 

[petem]

Many thanks for the replies. We are viewing some boats next Friday. Sure I'll be back to extract further knowledge from the forum!

I've seen a few of the overseas T30's, happy to share observations with you if you send me a PM.

Pete