Konsort Re-engine Queries

[andyo]

Our 1980 Konsort has developed a major fault with the gearbox on the Bukh DV20 engine. Our engineer has advised us to look to re-engine the boat as reconditioning the old gearbox may not even be possible and he (an ex-Bukh engineer) doesn't know of any replacements or a sensible way forward.

I've had a good look through these and the WOA forums but can't find many references to other Konsort owners changing their engines. Can anyone offer some thoughts on this, especially if they have gone through the process? I'm thinking of the difficulties in getting a replacement engine in, issues with the engine mounts, shaft and prop, coolling water inlet/access, etc.

Most posts on swapping a DV20 have led to the owner moving to a DV24. That may be the best option for us, but I'd appreciate anyone's thoughts.

 

[Tranona]

Beta 25 is the best option. You could get away with a 20, but the incremental cost and size difference is small. Beta will have brackets to mate the engine to the Bukh mounting positions. The engine is physically smaller and lighter than your existing (and far smoother and quieter!). You may be able to reuse your propshaft and stuffing box but will need a new prop. Budget for a new exhaust system. You may be able to reuse your existing water inlet if it is 3/4" but makes sense to move it to a more accessible location with a water filter above the waterline immediately above it. Budget cost for professional replacement £9000.

Just in the process of installing a Beta 30 so costs are "real" - the 25 is about £600 cheaper than the 30, but just a bit too shy on power for my boat, but good match for yours.

 

[LittleSister]

I was very happy with the Beta I had (smaller than what you'd want), and especially with the people at Beta who were very knowledgeable, helpful and would get spares out in the post the same day.

i imagine you'd be able to sell your DV20 if it's a runner, even without the gearbox.

As you may know, the DV24 is a different engine to the DV20, but shares some parts, and I believe is a drop in replacement for the DV20. Prices new are expensive compared to e.g. Beta, but you can sometimes get s/h ex-lifeboat ones. The DV29 and DV32 is basically the same engine as the 24, but uprated (the 32 has a turbo, I believe).

 

[neilf39]

Had a beta 25 to replace a dv20 3 years ago. Brilliant. 90kg lighter and all important bits can be reached from the front. Had everything replaced as needed a new prop anyway.

 

[alan_d]

If my 40 year old DV20 failed I would consider replacing it with a used DV24 from these people. Beta engines have an excellent reputation, but the advantage of going for a DV24 is that nothing else would need to be changed. I am a bit surprised by the need to replace the engine because of a gearbox problem, and I think I would ask for a second opinion about that.

 

[dankilb]

Gotta be the Beta… you may have to wait a few months, at least, because apparently they’re in short supply. One boat in our yard been waiting 6+ months (don’t know their circumstances, mind). Unfortunately, these days, you can’t just assume that making the decision and being ready to part with the cash will get you the lump straight away or even soon(ish).

 

[Tranona]

Yes, my engine was ordered on 25 March and delivered 2 weeks ago - 4 weeks later than the original quote.