Repower from Perkins 4-108 to WHAT?

[neoreundoer]

I am in need of a new engine. My current Perking 4-108 is dead and need replacement. I would prefer to refit with a newer technology for weight and efficiency. Any suggestions would be helpfull including new/rebuilt/used resources. If you have made this replacement or know someone who has, I would greatfully appreciate any advice.

 

[Mike Turner]

What's wrong with your 4-108? They're pretty solid engines, our's has been running solid (with a fix to a warped head last year) for 30+ years. Depending on the problem you may want to compare repair vs. replacement costs.

We briefly looked at replacing ours, didn't get far enough along to pick an alternative engine. Of course it's more than just then engine - if you go to replacement, you'll need to check dimensions versus the old engine; and there's the possibility you'd have to change out the engine mounts and beds, shaft and prop. It's a given that you'll be swapping out the transmission.

 

[Bill1565]

You already have one of the best sailboat diesels ever made. Spend what it takes or maybe find a rebuilderand swap out long blocks. I have a new modern lightweight peice of crap and long for my Perkins.

 

[Snotter]

Going with another 4-108 will save you lots of time and money.

 

[Chuckbear]

We replaced our 4-108 with the 56 HP Yanmar, not the turbo, and it was almost a drop in. We had to raise the supports for the front mounts, but that was about it. Chuck

 

[RAD]

I'm in agreement with the rest......figure out what it would take to freshen up your original, I have an old but great running Westerbeke that I'm always on EBay looking for parts and I do find them in the event I need something.
When I was at the Annapolis boat show I checked out Beta engines and they had a generator/motor mounted on the back of the engine that you could make electricity while running the engine if the clutch was engaged or power up the generator with battery power and run the propeller by electric.....pretty cool concept

http://www.betamarinenw.com/Applications/Replacementengines.html

 

[ebsail]

Mack Boring in NJ used to completely rebuild 108's. They did mine many years ago and it ran perfectly for years afterward. In fact it's still running fine for the new owner who purchased mine in 1990.

 

[Steve Dion]

I think it will depend on your budget for this engine swap. I think a typical engine swap for a 30 hp engine will run about $15k. I am guessing that if you get another 4-108 you can do it for about 2/3rds of that price. If you need a bigger engine you may be adding $3-5k to the $15k price.

Typically a newer design will save weight and better fuel economy.