Beat or Volvo?

[MoodySabre]

I need to replace my VP 2003 in my Moody 31 . Subject to some further negotiations I am being offered a Beta 30 with special feet or a VP D1-30 for the same money. Except for price of spares which do you think would be a better buy?
I hope to keep sailing for another 5 years and then recover some of this cost in the sale price.

 

[ChromeDome]

Previously discussed:
New engine needed: Beta 30 vs Volvo D1-30 vs Vetus M4.35???

I'd focus on vibration and noise levels, service/parts availability near you and DIY feasibility too.

 

[ChromeDome]

Thinking about it, also check instrument panels, reuse of remote control and other fitting parts 'make vs buy' or reuse.

 

[[70521]]

I'd buy a reconditioned VP2003.

 

[ChromeDome]

I'd buy a reconditioned VP2003.

Money talks, but I'd prefer something that has never been opened.?

 

[CPD]

Hi Roger, I have a D1-30 fitted in PD2. You are more than welcome to pop down and have a good look over / kick / play. Engine itself has been completely reliable, recently never skipped a beat during a 3.5 day 24/7 non-stop run, and I would have another one if ever needed - no question. I am out on her next Friday for a week or so if you care to join. Let me know .......

 

[Praxinoscope]

Now on third boat with Beta engines, (10 and 13/14) never had any problems, reliable, smooth running and economical. Current one has about 1000 hrs, it’s predecessor had over 1800 hrs when sold.
Beta are a great company to deal with, and spares seem to be competitively priced.

 

[Poecheng]

Now on third boat with Beta engines, (10 and 13/14) never had any problems, reliable, smooth running and economical. Current one has about 1000 hrs, it’s predecessor had over 1800 hrs when sold.
Beta are a great company to deal with, and spares seem to be competitively priced.

Agree, had a Beta 20hp in the last boat and would have a Beta any day of the week.

 

[KREW2]

Go for a beta, they're red so go faster.

 

[Tranona]

I need to replace my VP 2003 in my Moody 31 . Subject to some further negotiations I am being offered a Beta 30 with special feet or a VP D1-30 for the same money. Accept for price of spares which do you think would be a better buy?
I hope to keep sailing for another 5 years and then recover some of this cost in the sale price.

I have just been though the same choice. My preference was for a Volvo as I had excellent service out of both a 2030 and a D1 30. Would not worry about Volvo spares costs - annual service costs are much the same and you will get a 5 year warranty on the engine anyway. There are one or 2 irritating things about the Volvo - it has an electronic panel with an interface to link to the mechanical engine (called an MDI) these have been troublesome in the past although seems to be solved now the filters are in an awkward location and the exhaust elbows tend to block up if you do a lot of light load running. Otherwise it runs well and at lower rpm than others.

However I chose a Beta, primarily because I could not get any sense out of the Volvo dealer and the local Beta installer was prepared to take on all the changes to the stern gear I planned as well. Job is underway now after a long delay waiting for delivery. You might want to consider choosing the PRM box as this is more robust than the standard TMC40 and the high rise manifold.

 

[pioneer]

FWIW, Beta have a library of installed engines which is useful if you need advice as they can view on screen your engine as installed and can help with problem solving. The works "K" number also identifies your specific engine including any additional items (high rise exhaust, shallow sump, upgraded alternator in my case) which helps to ensure spares bought from them will fit your engine (air filters, vee belts, HE end plate gaskets etc.).

 

[skip50]

If you change the VP for the Beta (which I have just done) you will need a new propellor as well, they turn in opposite directions.

Beta list an oil cooler for the gearbox so that it can run in the opposite direction, so you might be able to keep your existing propellor. I asked my very experienced engineer about this ( he has installed about 12 Betas this winter alone). He said he had never fitted one, so I forgot that as an option.

Just to say my Beta starts so easily and runs so quietly and smoothly, it is superb.

 

[V1701]

Having a newish engine would undoubtedly make it easier to sell on but I wouldn't bank on being able to recover any of the cost...