Re-con or replacement engines for Princess 32 ??

[ceefax]

Hi everyone - forum newbie here, so please be gentle !!

We have a 1973 Princess 32 which is well cared for, but still on the original Volvo AQD21A 75HP diesel engines. These are now well worn, oil consumption is up to a litre every 10 hours at moderate revs (anything more than 2500 and they both overheat) and we tend to leave a cloud of blue smoke which makes lock work rather unpleasant!

I guess the options are either a total re-build of both engines, new replacement engines on the original outdrives, or if total insanity strikes, two new Volvo D3-130's with new outdrives. (total cost rather more than the boat is worth!)

Does anybody have experience of getting AQD21A engines fully re-built? I know they were marinised Peugeots re-badged by Volvo, and never had a great reputation when new, but they must have done something right cos there are still a lot around. I have heard that some spare parts are now almost unobtainable though.

The new engine options seem to be limited. I know Lancing Marine sell conversion kits to fit new Ford Puma 80HP diesels to Penta outdrives, and I have seen a secondhand Princess 32 advertised with recently fitted 80HP Vetus diesels - feedback would be welcome if anybody has experience of this.

 

[Divemaster1]

Would not try to re-build the 21's.... too tempremental and will always be prone to create some sort of trouble..

Yes there are still loads of them around, but they have only survived because engines have had an easy life... they will always be remembered as "potential trouble" alongside the old six cylinder MD32's of the same era...

Are you using the boat on the river or tidal?

At those hp's look at Nanni as well as Vetus & Fords..

Also consider re-conditioned MD29, 30, 31 & 32's (4 cylinder 32....)

 

[ceefax]

Thanks for the info.

We moor on the Forth and Clyde canal, but cruise the Firth of Clyde. Current top speed is about 6 knots on a good day

Anyone know what a Princess 32 with new 130HP engines would do?

(I'm trying to convince myself that if we are going to re-engine we might as well do it properly)

 

[oldgit]

Speedy Gonzales

My P33 which is a tad heavier will do about 16/17 knots with my 2 x 130hp AQD40s.My only concern would be if you existing outdrives are man enough to take the extra power.
Would have thought had 270 or 280 OK but anything earlier might be too fragile and you would need to sort the pitch and prop size.