Peugeot XDP 4.90 Specif. 0179 engine advice

[RobertClarke]

I recently bought a Colvic Atlanta 31 motor sailor which came fitted with an XDP 4.90 engine and a HBW20 gearbox.

The boat has been neglected and had a lot of rain water sitting in the bilges. This appears to have got into the gearbox which is in a pretty bad state, however, the engine seems to run OK.

I am planning on replacing the gearbox with a new Techno Drive TMC 260, but before I do that should I consider replacing the engine at the same time. Is the XDP 4.90 considered to be a "good" engine?

The boat was a bargain so if I do end up replacing the engine and gearbox it won't be the end of the world.

All advise gratefully received.

 

[gordmac]

Maybe someone will have experience of the engine but I would suggest if it seems to be ok leave it be.

 

[RobertClarke]

Thanks Gordmac. This was my initial thought, but as this is a motor sailor, a reliable engine is crucial. I have bad thoughts about drifting in the Bristol Channel with no propulsion.

Any suggestions on predicting the remaining life of a 30 year old diesel engine? Will I get any early warnings of failure?

I would also be interested in any recommendations on a possible new replacement. (2 litre diesel, 50+ hp).

 

[gordmac]

You have sails! Us motorboat owners don't have that alternative propulsion method.
If it starts easily it is probably ok, you could test the compression I suppose. Does it smoke much? Service it, replace the fuel filters, make sure the cold start is ok, valve clearances, check the injectors are ok.

 

[jon wilmot]

Dear shipmates, I have two of these engines in an old Princess 32 which is now 44 years old, they are a great Peugot based engine used in 504, Ford Granada, and Mahindra jeep. Simplicity is the key. I am currently rebuilding a warped head which has been skimmed. Parts are a problem but are available by searching XDP4.90 Peugot rather than "Volvo".
The engine builders I got to skim the head advised me to keep them going rather than replace. Injectors and fuel system are all repairable. I have a list of compatible parts and suppliers if anyone wants help. Volvo don't support this engine now and anything you can get is ridiculously expensive. Change the oil and filter every 100 hours with basic mineral oil. Don't use engine to idle charging batteries work it hard. Don't leave it standing for months in winter remove raw water impellor if ashore and run for two minutes or until exhaust elbow is warm to keep moisture out. Check oil and coolant daily. ASAP supplies are extremely helpful. Head gasket £60. P.S. mine are the 2.1 litre 2112cc.
Good luck. Jon.

 

[RobertClarke]

Hi Jon.

My XDP4.90 is running well at the moment but I would be interested in sources for parts to keep it going in the future.

Regards
Rob

 

[mjhynes]

Hi all,
I have a Pedro with a XDP4.90 and it is running well. However, I would like to find out how the crankcase ventilation system works in this engine. There is no breather tube from the cylinder head cover but there must be some way of reducing the crankcase pressure. Can anyone explain to me how it works. MJH