Volvo AQ131 engine

[stevesov]

A technical query; my brother has a Reflection 23 with a Volvo AQ131 engine and a 280 outdrive fitted. He only does river speeds, ie limited to either 4 or 7 mph. He estimates that he is getting about 4 mpg out of it, is this the best he can expect ?
Also does anyone know if this Volvo engine has a road vehicle equivalent?, said brother is looking at the possibility of fitting a deisel, probably a Ford, which will need some adaption in the bell housing area. Any advice much appreciated.
Steve.

 

[Guest]

From memory the engine was based on the Volvo 145 car engine. Some bits are the same but not all by any means. Lancing Marine are the best bet for the diesel conversion. They supply Fords and the outdrive adapters.

 

[Chris_d]

4 mpg is a little bit low, I get about 5 mpg from a 220hp engine at 1400rpm, but I have run a 50hp petrol and got exactly the same, A diesel will give a reasonable improvement maybe 7mpg, and the diesel is obviously cheaper, which is the biggest difference.
Its surprising how quickly the consumption rises though, 1400rom gives me 1gph, 1800 about 2gph, 3000rpm 5gph and 5000rpm 12gph!

 

[brianrunyard]

For the diesel conversion take a look at
http://www.lancingmarine.com
They do complete engines, DIY kits and individual parts. and will give free advice.