engine replacement

Apr 26, 2013
3
catalina catalina 27 Haida Gwaii Masset BC
Has anyone ever replaced a Yanmar YSM8 with a MD7A volvo? we are about to and are looking for advise.
 
Dec 14, 2003
1,434
Hunter 34 Lake of Two Mountains, QC, Can
Has anyone ever replaced a Yanmar YSM8 with a MD7A volvo? we are about to and are looking for advise.
Why ? You are about to undertake a major change !!! From new engine mounts, to new transmission, possibly new shaft (or at least reconfigured from new proper length, new prop (Vovo's rotation opposite of Yanmar), and possible reconfiguration of exhaust system as well as fuel and fuel return line. New electrical panel, and possible reconfiguration of fuel and tranny cables. Easiest replacement would be a drop-in Yanmar. That's what I did to avoid all the hassle and extra work. Good luck.
 
Apr 26, 2013
3
catalina catalina 27 Haida Gwaii Masset BC
Why ? You are about to undertake a major change !!! From new engine mounts, to new transmission, possibly new shaft (or at least reconfigured from new proper length, new prop (Vovo's rotation opposite of Yanmar), and possible reconfiguration of exhaust system as well as fuel and fuel return line. New electrical panel, and possible reconfiguration of fuel and tranny cables. Easiest replacement would be a drop-in Yanmar. That's what I did to avoid all the hassle and extra work. Good luck.

Thanks, it is going to be tricky. The reason we're doing this is because we are in the north and this was the engine we could find and afford. I am really hoping I would find someone that had done this before smoothly....
 
Dec 14, 2003
1,434
Hunter 34 Lake of Two Mountains, QC, Can
Thanks, it is going to be tricky. The reason we're doing this is because we are in the north and this was the engine we could find and afford. I am really hoping I would find someone that had done this before smoothly....
I understand the $$$ issue but by the time you do all the necessary changes and pay for the parts, it might become more expensive that rebuilding your Yanmar, or shipping it to Vancouver (or Edmonton depending where you are) to have it rebuilt. If you already have the Volvo, I hope you do get someone who has done it come on the site and provide answers. Good luck.
 
Jun 2, 2004
1,077
Several Catalinas C25/C320 USA
I agree with Claude, your project will be major surgery...it will be very pricey by the time you get finished. Affording the engine is only part of the equation.
 
Aug 1, 2011
3,972
Catalina 270 255 Wabamun. Welcome to the marina
Thanks, it is going to be tricky. The reason we're doing this is because we are in the north and this was the engine we could find and afford. I am really hoping I would find someone that had done this before smoothly....
Given where you are, there are a number of very capable shops not that far south of you. As stated already, the sheer costs of replacing all that stuff, and you would be replacing it, is easily more than the effort to get the engine rebuilt. Chances are, you might even hook up with somebody who has a trailer, and the engine might not even have to come out. (Maybe I'm dreaming).
 

jrowan

.
Mar 5, 2011
1,294
O'Day 35 Severn River, Mobjack Bay, Va.
I agree with sticking with Yanmar. I used to own an S 2 with a YSM 8, & although it doesn't have a lot of power, it is usually extremely reliable & has very good fuel economy. Plus you can hand crank start this engine if you run out of battery power, because it is only 1 cylinder.
A rebuild of an existing motor should be less then half the cost of replacement.
Plus you know that the engine fits, was made for your boat, so no alterations are required to the engine mounts, trans, shaft, etc. which are important considerations when considering repowering.

I would recommend looking into having the existing engine rebuilt if it no longer runs.
Parts are still avaliable. Most of the time it's fuel problems that cause these diesels to stop running. As long as the block is not cracked from overheating, it is a straightforward procedure to rebuild. Can you decribe the problems your having?

I also believe that Yanmar are far more reliable & have a better reputation for long term durability then Volvo engines. Look around & see how many yacht have Yanmar diesels vs. Volvo & that should answer that question.

Good luck.