Fix, change or scrap

[manus]

I recently bought a boat which has a volvo penta B20 engine, the problem is I dont know which one. It has a 100 series outdrive (ancient I know). The engine has twin carbs which makes me think its a AQ130.
The problem is the exhaust manifold is leaking coolant into the exhaust through a couple of pin prick size holes. I ran the boat and the engine is purring like a pussycat, however I'm thinking if the manifold has rotted then chances are there is also damage to the engine.
Here is what i'm thinking.
1. Replace the manifold (£120 2nd hand) and take the remainder of the season out of it.
2. Over the winter, replace the engine with something more up to date and this is where my question comes in.

Q1. Being a competent mechanic but novice to boating, is is worth my while replacing the engine alone or should I also replace the outdrive?
Q2. Any suggestions on replacement engine/outdrive units?
Q3. Should I strip and rebuild the Volvo engine?
Q4. Where can I get parts for the engine?

As ever, I wouldnt mind a bit more poke out of the engine, it allegedly puts out 130hp but then again the boat is allegedly 1985...
Thoughts, comments, general banter all welcome

 

[Dave_Snelson]

Mmm - tricky. If you have pots of money then go for replacing the lot.

If like me you don't have pots of money, then prioritise.

1) Change the exhaust manifold and riser as they will both be shot for sure. If you don't do this very quickly, it will leak water internally and seize your engine, then you will be back to pots of money.

2) Rebuild your drive leg. You can get spares (probably) from Coastal Rides and you should check out the condition of the gears etc - but definately go for all seals and bellows.

Seems a shame to chuck an engine that "purrs like a pussey-cat". Good luck.

 

[apollo]

As for engine parts, the B20 is the same engine as in the old Volvo Estate cars, so should be plenty around in breakers yards for parts.

I replaced one of these engines in a previous boat for the Ford FSD Diesel that Lancing Marine offer (self marinised in my case). Was fairly straightforward swap and I would not call myself that mechanically minded.

Give Mike Bellamy or Mark a call at lancing marine.

 

[Ifraser]

you can replace with mercruiser 3 ltr ( 125hp ) petrol inc outdrive for about £4000. I have a pair of old B21 engines volvo aq140a i'm hoping to replace them with Mercruiser 1.7D's for about 8k each. I'm relatively mechanically minded but i just reached the stage this year where I've spent more time fixing than using so going to replace the whole lot. If you are getting a new engine its not a huge amount more for the whole package inc drive then its all new and you've got no worries. cheers Iain