Westerbeke Purchase?

[Ted]

Hi all, I'm considering purchasing an '83 H34, with a 21hp Westerbeke engine, I think its model is a "W21"?... would greatly appreciate any & all comments on the reliability, maintainability, operations, quirks etc with this engine.... I'm somewhat concerned about some of the things I see, from a maintenance standpoint, such as the aft facing impeller cover etc.... and have come to love my lil Yanmar on another boat... very interested in any advice & opinions y'all can put forward. Thanks

 

[steven f.]

model 21a

I own a H33, 1981 and the original engine had been replaced with a Westerbeke 21a. This engine is rated at 24 hp, not 21. I've found it to be a very sound engine but the maintance of this engine has been solid and timely. Your concern about the aft-facing impeller plate is not too big of a deal. It does take some fancy finger work to get two of the six screws out but I've done it a couple time. It would be a challange in any type of sea way, much easier at a dock or calm anchorage. Also depends on your engine compartment access, mine is fairly good. My biggest problem has been the heat exchanger. I had to replace it and considered rebuilding the old one vs. buying new. The cost was about $200 more for a new one ($500+/-). I spent many hours cussing in the lazzeret but all in all it went well with minimal problems. Actually, my main problem was getting the replacement hoses to fit, had to do some "rigging" to make all the hoses work correctly. I've found the parts are a bit more expensive than other engines but no more difficult to come by. The cost is not anything to worry too much about. I'm a HUGE beliver in PM, keep it working before it breaks down on you. Change your oil every 100 hours, fuel filters every 200 hours, etc. etc. I'm quite satisfied with mine but I'm also no expert in diesel engines.

 

[Barry Olsen]

Don't Hesitate!

I have the same boat with the same motor (hull#56). I've found it to be very reliable. It's appears bigger than the Yanmars and access is tight. I've changed the seawater impeller twice in seven years and found that it was easier to remove the entire pump that try and get the cover off in place. I considered cutting an access port in the wall of the aft cabin to reach it but since it's not frequently change I never did it.I'm very impressed with the self bleeding fuel system. I've emptied the fuel tank and changed all the filters several times. All you need to do is turn the key and it's back running again. Parts are readily available in Mass. from Hansen Marine.Production of the h34 started with Westerbeke motors. They were sold with the correct size prop to reach hull speed at open throttle. Mine will do 7.1 knots. Many or the later h34 boats with Yanmar engines had the wrong size props and did not perform as well under power.When I initially reasearched information on this motor before my purchase I didn't find anything negative. I'd be more concerned about problems with the compression post, rudder, rusty keel, opening ports and LEAKS than I'd be with the motor.Barrys/v "PER DIEM too"