Volvo

[KevB]

I heard over the weekend that as from some time later this year Volvo are only giving a 1 year warranty on new engines. Anyone else heard this?
If it's true, you don't think it's because they are $hit and and Volvo themselves don't trust them to last more than a year?

Politically incorrect and proud of it.

 

[BarryH]

I dont trust em as far as i could throw one. I can honestly say that this volvo engine is the worst engine i have ever had in a boat. If i had the money to spare i would quiet gladly throw it overboard and replace it with, well anything!

 

[Scubadoo]

You know, before my current boat, I had a Fletcher Speedboat with a 80hp Mercury and never really had much problem. Owning a Volvo AD31 has simply scared me from owning another one - I've only had less than 3years with them.

But what can you do ? many boats like Sealine seem to only offer Volvo - so no choice on new boats and even less on Used.

RM.

 

[luckyjimbo]

What you have heard over the weekend is true!.
I was speaking to a man from Volspec in maldon and he said "from September we are going to harmonise with the europeans, and offer a one year warranty!!!" excellent I thought!..............

 

[PGD]

I've just put in ab AD31P into my boat - how's yours running. I haven't had any problems yet.

Peter

Not everything is black and white if you prove otherwise you’ll get run over on a zebra crossing

 

[kingfisher]

Two years waranty minimu

europa.eu.int/eur-lex

Directive 1999/44

From 01/01/2002 onwards, all goods sold to consumers (so not for professional use ) have to come with a TWO year waranty.

DUnfortunately, the directive is not yet implemented in UK law, though.

Obi-Wan
http://sirocco31.tripod.com

 

[BarryH]

Have you still got the carbs off the engine you took out, My insurance is kicking up over the fuel injection that I fitted. Don't know why, its safer than the carbs anyway!

Smile. its only money!

 

[PGD]

hi, sorry Barry but that was one of the first bits to go. MAinly have the big bits left on the engine, plus loads of electrials and general bits and bobs and the Leg of course.

Peter

Not everything is black and white if you prove otherwise you’ll get run over on a zebra crossing

 

[Scubadoo]

Hi Peter,

Firstly I have to say my AD31 has been very reliable and never let me down. My previous message was not very clear, so to be clearer:

1. The Volvo Throttle control corroded through and was replaced, trouble with the forward gear engaging.

2. My engine had serious corrosion problem to the extent that last year the engine was removed so the oil sump could be replaced (almost corroded through!).

3. Turbo Gasket leaked.

My grief with Volvo is why the corrosion on an engine less than 2.5 years old and Volvo very poor customer service i.e. show no interest.

So to sum up my engine has never let me down and in essence been happy with it - it has done now 250hrs. What I would say to you is monitor for corrosion, get a mirror and DOUBLE check the oil sump, if the paint has been scratched it will rust. All I can say - my sump must have been badly scratched when fitted to my new boat and spotted the corrioson too late. Never will make that costly mistake again!

I hope this helps to re-assure you with your new engine - Rememeber watch for rust and use Volvo paint and Duck Oil for protection.

PS. Since the repair I have no corrosion.

RM.

 

[PGD]

cheers for the info, here's to standing on my head with a mirror this weekend.

Do you think the salt water environment had anything to do with it - would you expect the same level of damage on the river?

Not everything is black and white if you prove otherwise you’ll get run over on a zebra crossing

 

[Scubadoo]

Salt water had a lot to do with it, my boat only sits in salt water. I think what started the corrosion process was the faulty Raw Water filter, it leaked and was fix in the first year.

Secondly I believe condensation builds up after a long run, when the engine cools down you get condensation where the oil cools.

So, basically first treat any early signs of rust and also leave Dehumidity Crystals next to the engine - engine is pretty dry all the time now. I'm also scared stiff of the problem re-occurring!

If you don't keep an eye on things you may pay £1,800 like I did to get it all sorted - still think the Volvo designers need their heads banged against a wall.

PS. Freshwater is less corrosive than salt or should I say corrosion takes longer to occur.

RM.

 

[PGD]

Cheers again for the pointers, I like the idea of the crystals, where did you get yours from? Odd thing is why does this not happen to all engines or at least all Volvos?

I saw another good idea while down at Bisham Sails School, Roy had put Cat litter under the engine - it soaked up any wetness or oil then dried out again when the engine room warmed up. Don't know what others think and I did question the use under the BSS if it's allowed or not.

Peter


Not everything is black and white if you prove otherwise you’ll get run over on a zebra crossing

 

[Scubadoo]

Hi Again,

The crystals are from Homebase (the largest pack) and will last probably around two months. Warning, make sure you empty the water before taking the boat for a spin - the water collection from the crystals is quite harmful and probably damage the GRP if left for some time.

I said this early on another posting, I asked a question last year and the general response was that their engines do corrode, some just pour loads of oil/grease everywhere and others spray wd40 etc.

My engine has a drip tray underneath so reduces any chance of bilge water splashing my sump and highlights any leaks from the engine. This tray is more designed for protecting rivers from pollution.

Any more question please feel free to ask.

RM.

 

[boatone]

Re: Dehumid xtals

You can get much larger refill packs of xtals from B&Q for around a fiver - I think they're brill.............
You're right about taking care disposing of the water though....definitely caustic so make sure you wash your hands carefully or even wear rubber gloves.

' shouldn't cost much to put that right....or is it a v*lv*? ;-)'

www.boatsonthethames.co.uk

 

[Scubadoo]

Re: Dehumid xtals

Thanks for that, next time in B&Q I'll have a look.

RM.