Westerbeke vs. Yanmar

[Jason W.]

I was wondering if someone out there can share with me some experience with the Westerbeke 42hp 4cylinder diesle engine. I am considering purchasing a new boat this year and was wondering if I should upgrade to the Yanmar engine. I am familiar with Yanmar engines and I know how long they last, but, I have no idea about the Westerbeke engine, i.e., durability, longevity, parts availability and quality.Any and all help would be greatly appreciated.JasonH-34

 

[Steve Dion]

Are you looking at a new Catalina?

Jason:Are you looking at a new Catalina? I far as I know the Westerbekes are fine engines. I have not heard of anything negative about these engines. Are you looking at upgrading to a more powerful Yanmar vs. the Westerbeke? I would look at the cost of this upgrade as a determining factor. You can probably put money into some better upgrades.

 

[Tim Schaaf]

Spare Parts

Someone else may know better, but I believe that Westerbeke does not make its own engines, unlike Yanmar. As a result, I am given to believe that some of the older engines become difficult to find spares for, as Westerbeke may not have as good control over support, etc. As for Yanmar, they keep churning out the parts for my 2QM15, built in 1979. They have told me that the only part that is currently unavailable is the spring for the governor, and there is a workaround for that!

 

[Barry]

Westerbeke!

They have been around a long time. Yes they do use blocks from other suppliers. I've seen several Perkins 4 cyl. blocks that are Westerbeke's as well smaller Mitsibusi motors. They have a good supply chain for parts and availabilty is rarely a problem although they can be pricey.Westerbeke acquired Universal Diesel several years ago so they are bound to become a bigger player in that business. They have done some innovative stuff in the 1980's like self bleeeding fuel systems which work great. Their 3 cyl motor appear to be bigger than and heavier the Yanmar is. I have found them to be very reliable. Eight years ago I hestiated a bit when buying a boat that had one but have no regrets. My vessel performs better that sister ships that have Yanmar power. I certainly wouldn't pay money to "upgrade" from Westerbeke to Yanmar.Barry

 

[Doug]

No Problems with Westerbeke

I had a Westerbeke 21 in a Hunter 34 for 16 years, never had a problem. Replaced the exhaust elbow a couple of times. It always outran 34's with the Yanmar engine. The self bleeding fuel system is great.I have had two Yanmars, currently a 36hp in a Hunter 376, and they are bullet proof too. Basic difference, Westerbeke had glow plugs, the self bleeding system, and a drain plug with hose permanently attached to the oil pan (neat feature). I believe Hunter switched the 34 to Yanmar to save cost.I have been pleased with both, but would expect the Westerbeke to be a little more expensive due to the extra features.