VP MD2020 running advice.

[puddock]

There have been similar threads recently, so appologies for being repetitive.
When I bought my Westerly Storm, she was fitted with an MD2020. The advice I was given at the time was to run her @2000 rpm (this gives 4.5-5 kts in calm weather - it is only 18hp).
The manual quotes the max revs as 3200-3600 rpm. There doesn't appear to be any mention of "Cruising Revs", though a table shows peak torque between 2000rpm and 2800 rpm.

Personally, I would prefer to be using her a little harder (@2400 rpm) as I don't like diesels to be run "gently".
Any views?

 

[Juggler7823]

MD2020 revs

I suggest that 2000rpm is too low for cruising revs. I am sure that it would be comfortable at 2500rpm or slightly higher. The performance would improve at the cost of increased fuel consumption.

 

[Tranona]

I have the 2030 - same rev range and similar shape power curves. Cruising revs are 2400 which gives 5.5knts. Maximum 3600 for 7.5.

If your boat is propped correctly (and your current speed would indicate that it is) then run it at 2400 for about 5.4 and max revs should give you around 7.

You may want to vary cruising revs a little depending on whether you have odd sounds/vibrations or the kettle dances on the hob etc! Engine doesn't mind but you get to feel the most comfortable revs.

 

[johnalison]

The 2030 is pretty smooth at any revs above 2000. I frequently hear people say "my boat does 6 knots at 2000 RPM" but realistically, anything from 2400 to 2800 is fine for cruising. Although my basic speed is 2400, sea conditions or wind sometimes make higher revs better.

 

[puddock]

Cheers for that lads - just as I expected. Fuel is barely 1 litre/ hour at the moment and suggested seems to be 1.5 l/hr so I think I can stretch it a bit

 

[Ricd]

I have a 2020 and the recommended cruising revs are 2500 - 2800. I typically run it at these revs giving 5.5 to 6Kn

 

[KREW2]

There have been similar threads recently, so appologies for being repetitive.
When I bought my Westerly Storm, she was fitted with an MD2020. The advice I was given at the time was to run her @2000 rpm (this gives 4.5-5 kts in calm weather - it is only 18hp).
The manual quotes the max revs as 3200-3600 rpm. There doesn't appear to be any mention of "Cruising Revs", though a table shows peak torque between 2000rpm and 2800 rpm.

Personally, I would prefer to be using her a little harder (@2400 rpm) as I don't like diesels to be run "gently".
Any views?

Are you sure it's the MD2020? I thought most, like mine, were fitted with the VP2002. I have yet to sail my new boat, but one of my concerns has been if it will have enough grunt to push it along.

 

[puddock]

Yes, it is the MD2020. It was re-engined about 5 or 6 years ago.
I wouldn't worry too much about the power you have. You will get there - just a bit slower than you'd have liked.

To be honest, if I were to re-engine, it would be to something with a little more Ooomph!