KAD 44 Questions

[klesein]

I am looking at a couple 27' Sea Sport Pilothouses. Both have the KAD 44. I have always owned gas boats, so the diesel thing is new to me. How many hours could one expect to get out of a well maintained engine? Do you guys have any comments for or against the 44? These are higher HP diesels, so I would expect them to have a shorter life than the slower turning, lower HP diesels, but what should I expect? I have always maintained, repaired or rebuilt gas engines myself, so I am a little reluctant going to diesel. The price difference buying a diesel/gas used in this market, doesn't seem to be as big of a factor as when they are new. The thing that IS appealing is the GPM difference. I realize that there is more maintainence and that diesel fuel is more expensive, but the diesel still seems more cost effective to run. Also, who would you suggest for a Volvo Diesel shop? Any comments would be greatly appreciated.

 

[Sneds]

Diesel more expensive? Where are you located?

 

[jon and michie]

Look At Aquaholic's video on costs - he explains major difference cost in diesel vs petrol.

 

[petem]

Kad44's should do thousands of hours before a rebuild is required. Turbos generally last around 16 years and various other ancillaries may need attention in time.

Get someone who knows these engines to check for rusty sumps, leaking coolers, rusty exhaust elbows, etc.

Might be helpful telling us where you're based so that we can perhaps recommend a service place (the world's a big place).

 

[Portland Billy]

I have twin KAD 44s, now over twenty years old and still going strong.( But only around 150 hours per year).
Servicing costs average out at about £1000 per annum - including tappet reset and injector service for both engines ( done every three year).

 

[petem]

I have twin KAD 44s, now over twenty years old and still going strong.( But only around 150 hours per year).
Servicing costs average out at about £1000 per annum - including tappet reset and injector service for both engines ( done every three year).

Do you do injectors every three years? That's not a VP recommendation.

Also, valve clearances are hours based (200 hours) and not time based.

 

[klesein]

I am looking at a couple 27' Sea Sport Pilothouses. Both have the KAD 44. I have always owned gas boats, so the diesel thing is new to me. How many hours could one expect to get out of a well maintained engine? Do you guys have any comments for or against the 44? These are higher HP diesels, so I would expect them to have a shorter life than the slower turning, lower HP diesels, but what should I expect? I have always maintained, repaired or rebuilt gas engines myself, so I am a little reluctant going to diesel. The price difference buying a diesel/gas used in this market, doesn't seem to be as big of a factor as when they are new. The thing that IS appealing is the GPM difference. I realize that there is more maintainence and that diesel fuel is more expensive, but the diesel still seems more cost effective to run. Also, who would you suggest for a Volvo Diesel shop? Any comments would be greatly appreciated. applinked

Solved. Thanks.