Volvo TAMD31 150hp

[AllanG]

I'm considering a 1997 boat fitted with a Volvo TAMD31 150hp shaft drive engine, which has done 860 hours.

It appears that the TAMD31 is a fairly basis diesel engine, with no fancy electronic controls, but I would value any advice / opinions regarding its performance, reliability, strengths/weaknesses, etc, etc.

As the engine has been serviced annually, is there any special work that may be required with this model of engine after 860 hours?

Thanks in advance,

Allan

 

[Chris_d]

I've got 2 x AD31P's which is the same engine on outdrives, as you say very basic should go forever. Things to check on an older one would be blocked heat exchanger, check it doesn't run hot at WOT, exhaust elbow may rot from the inside out, turbo may have seized up if used on a river a lot, same checks as any engine really, check service history etc.. 31's are very solid if looked after.

 

[volvopaul]

Hi Alan, the 31 is a good reliable unit as long as its been serviced regular.

The heat exchangers a bit on the small side and needs to be 100% clean for it to work at WOT, the oil coolers the main culprit as its first inline form the sw pump it blocks easy.

As its 860 hours the injectors will need testing soon for hosing etc, valve clearances.

If its shaft drive the MS gearboxes are not the best in the world.

Im always around Southampton area, if you wnat me to do a survey and sea trial on the machinery send me a pm with some details of the boat, where its lying etc.