Choosing a new engine

[SteveA]

I've started looking for a replacement for our BMC diesel (about 50hp)and would like the experts here to give me some pointers.

What are the benefits of direct compared to indirect injection?

Also I've presently got a hydraulic gearbox but quite a few of the engines I've looked at have mechanical - is one better than the other?

 

[FlyingDutchman]

A direct injected diesel is more fuel efficient (up to 30%) and does not need glow plugs (except for extreme cold conditions) but are, generally speaking, noisier than indirect injected diesels.

 

[dickh]

Lots of threads in the past on this subject, try the search facility. Hydraulic gearboxes are more expensive. Direct injection are usually more high-tech(expensive); indirect are more lowtech(cheaper & arguably more reliable)need heater plugs, therefore not instant start(not usually a problem). Mechanical gearboxes are fine as long as they are rated correctly - they can usually be repaired easily.
For engines try BETA & NANNI, both based on the Kubota range of industrial diesels, and Volvo Penta, Yanmar and others, all have their plusses and minuses. Beta often come out as good buys. Also look at whether you can get service locally and price of spares.

 

[Das_Boot]

Most of the engines are based on the same blocks Have a look at the quality of the marinising equipment. I have been through this over the last year and am finaly getting my boat pulled and the new engine put in it will be an Isuzu 54hp not because it is cheaper but because they run and run. The kobuto block is slightly lower revving but a lot more expensive however I believe the block is made in the same factory as the Isuzu.
I have been told this by people but am unable to verify it.

 

[SteveA]

Many thanks for the guidance, it has helped a lot.

I must admit I felt a bit of a fool asking as my background is marine engineering - Chiefs ticket and 16 years at sea, but I have little or no experience with small engines.

 

[pappaecho]

Faced with the same problem four years ago, again replacing an aged BMC lump, I decided to go for a marinised Ford XLD 118 engine, as fitted to Ford Escorts, Sierras, vans etc. I managed to buy an engine from a Fork Lift truck with about 800 hours on it for 130 quid. Replaced the water pump (cost 35 quid) and the timing belts and tensioner for about 80 quid.
Checks on the pump and injectors cost 30 quid, and they were in good nick so did not need changing.
Spent 650 quid on marinisation kit, and have put about 450 hours on the engine without a problem. It starts first time, does not smoke or cause problems. Spares are cheap, and its longevity is well proven. I really do not understand spending 5-6000 pounds on a lump fitted to a boat which is 20 years old

 

[FullCircle]

Steve,
I saw this and thought of this thread. Looks like what you may want, rather than what I was actually looking for!! /forums/images/graemlins/cool.gif


Jim

 

[FullCircle]

Oh b^gger, the link didn't come out. Go look on Boatsandoutboards.co.uk in Engines, there is a Ford 4 cyl and box there 63HP for about 500 quid......

Sorry /forums/images/graemlins/crazy.gif

Jim

 

[sailorman]

i have a Nanni 37.5 kubota based with a PRM 150 hydraulic box, hydraulic box quieter + more reliable.
i woud go for Beta, still kubota based + Prm hydraulic box u r able to service the Beta yourself with a 2 Yr un-conditional warrenty.unlike the very restricted Nanni 3 Yr warrenty that covers vertually nothing .
my engine now 2 1/2 yrs old 300 hrs runs brilliantly & has more power @ 2800 rpm then the original Perky 4108 /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif /forums/images/graemlins/grin.gif