I’ve owned 11 boats previous to my BCC, most either had no engine or the one’s that had one didn’t work. First and foremost, I’m a sailor. My current diesel is a miracle that starts every time with the push of a button. Having said that, it’s time to think about that big green box. My 1991 2003 Volvo runs like a champ. It was recently surveyed with flying colors. Still, it’s a 34 year old engine and needs some love. I’m grounded for at least a year or more if not forever due to my vision. I’m finding this the perfect time to play with my boat in the yard and do some much needed long term maintenance.
I’m torn between pulling the engine and overhauling it or replacing it with something new. I have to say, I love Volvo and find them to be very reliable. It also fits my boat. If I was worried about cost I wouldn’t have a BCC, so this isn’t really a budget question - it’s a best fit question. I know almost zero about diesel engines so here I am. I’ve scanned the boards and don’t see much recent action so I’m pleading my case: love what I have and make it new again, or go all new? Sure I could easily just get a new engine. With that thinking I could also just get a new boat. I like old things but sometimes wonder when its time to enter the modern era.
One last note: Under my stewardship, my BCC will never leave the waters of the Pacific Northwest, so locating parts isn’t a problem.
Sorry to about your vision issues. If I were in the situation you describe, and the existing engine starts and runs reliably, and is not burning oil or exhibiting other worrisome symptoms, and you’re happy with the existing power, I think I’d leave it alone for now. If things change in future years, you’ll still be near suitable facilities to do that project and it is a viable winter haul project.
I see you have a SeaFrost engine drive frigo compressor. That adds scope to the project. If you plan on reinstalling that on the new engine, you’ll probably need to reengineer the bracket and sheaves. Alternatively you’re switching your frigo.
When we repowered Calypso, I vowed that I’d never run the new engine solely for battery or frigo charging. So scope crept to include new frigo and rejigging battery charging options.
I think I’m in agreement with you. I also love making old stuff new again. Not a fan of the Seafrost. Not because it doesn’t work, I just don’t like systems. It’s also always in the way. I’m quite envious of the newer BCCs that don’t have the tiny wet locker. Space on a small boat is a virtue.
As far as my eyes, I’ve known this was coming my whole life. I retired at 15 knowing someday I’d have to go to work and earn for my golden years. 40 some odd years later I’m looking into starting a career. Maybe when I turn 65, ha! Cheers and thank you
I have a same Volvo 2003 from 1987 on my BCC. It is a great engine and I would never replace it! I found it very agreeable and easy to maintain, and parts abundant. Does not require advanced skills; I got a diesel maintenance book and that was sufficient to teach myself how. I have also received original Volvo online parts 24 hours after ordering. This engine needs very minimal care and has never let me down. I replaced the exhaust riser ‘elbow’ which had clogged up over the decades and the engine runs like a teenager. I also have a modern dual output alternator which is a worthwhile upgrade. Best of luck!
