engine

[suse]

On the boat I have just jointly bought is a 27 year old Volvo MB2A (or something like), which at the very least needs a service and the engine mounts changing, I believe the tank has a leak, and the stuffing box needs restuffing. We have had a comprehensive estimate for all sorts of (probably) necessary work to be done for nearly £4000, yes, c £4000. And I dont think the yard are trying to make work for themselves, they have enough of the really pricey stuff queueing up to fuss about the shrimps.

I'm not very happy spending this sort of money on an old engine, and one which the surveyor said would be OK for another season, and think ourselves lucky. I think this points to a replacement.

Ideas and suggestions please - the boat weighs c 9 tons TM, and the current engine is c 40 hp. Do we need such a big engine this time round, as I understand diesel technology has improved over the last 27 years? Access to the engine area is extremely good - it's under the cockpit, which is basically 2 large traps, and from the saloon behind removable steps (I also think you can get at one side via a big cockpit locker). Is there a preferred make? Price? AOB?

 

[Guest]

Worth getting a quote on a Yanmar, The South Coast Agent is Marine Power at Bursledon. Their web site is www.yanmar.co.uk if you are not South Coast I would have thought they will know who is local to you plus might be able to give you indicative prices.

4K sounds a lot for remedial work that might have additional work later.

Pete

 

[AndrewB]

£4k for a service????

You are talking total overhaul including rebore for this sort of money ... unlikely to be worth it for a 27 year old engine. My guess is the yard is just telling you they don't want the work.

The leaky fuel tank is a separate job, and if its built in and difficult to access, it may be that that's putting up the cost.

Unless your inclination is quite definitely to go with a new engine, look for a second estimate for the servicing work. If it's a runner, get a compression test done, and if that isn't too disasterous then get a quote for routine servicing, including new injectors, a fuel pump overhaul, and new mounts fitted. It isn't going to be cheap, but you should expect some loose change from a grand.

Keeping an older engine going does call for some know-how. If you haven't already, there is a lot to be said for going to a weekend RYA diesel maintenance course.

Another option is to consider a factory reconditioned unit - much cheaper than new, specially if your old engine can be taken in part exchange. Some manufacturers offer this service - worth contacting Volvo.

 

[Guest]

A 40 hp engine is going to be £7k ish new.

Ive done the RYA diesel course, and the great instructor recommended getting refurbishment from truck engine specialists, with injectors going back to Bosch. Try a truck specialist, and see how he compares. It must be worth spending up to £2k to get a refurbished engine, surely, but at £4k its not so simple