MD2030 D1-30 motor replacment

[marioxp]

After I did a major service on the engine and replaced practically everything, pistons, bearings, pumps, cylinder head with valves... After 400 hours of operation, problems with starting, low pressure was measured in one cylinder, shims were found near the valves. I decided to replace the engine.

In Croatia, I only have a few options. Perkins engine 3.29 which is marinized by a company in Croatia (they have more than 30 years of experience and very good recommendations) and the other option is Volvo penta d1-30. Perkins engine is around 6,800 eur and d1-30 12,300 eur (VAT included), with the big note that d1-30 comes with sail drive and for Perkins I have to use my own gearbox and sail drive. The price difference is huge but I get the whole set from Volvo.

But my biggest question is has anyone replaced MD2030 with D1-30? Are you satisfied, do you have any problems?

I'm worried if the mounts are the same.

I am attaching pictures of my engine mounts.

[symphony2]

Pretty sure it is a direct replacement. I have had both engines and there is little to choose between them in terms of performance and refinement except that the D1 runs at lower rpm (max 3200 rather than 3600) and has a larger 115A alternator The 130 drive is much improved, particularly the larger and more easily replaced anode.

The Perkins is the same engine but downside is that using the 120 drive means you will have to change your propeller. The 120 has a 2.47:1 reduction and the 130 is 2.2:1. so when you mate to a 3200rpm engine the shaft speed drops from 1470 to 1295. Also you are reusing a 25 year old drive and while it may last spares are not available and failure means a new 130 drive which will cost much the same as the difference between the engine only price of the Perkins and the complete Volvo package.

You should be able to negotiate a trade in discount with the Volvo dealer or free fitting  as the 120 drive alone has a value because of the non availability of parts. Volvo may also still be offering a 5 year warranty on new engines and drives.

If you intend keeping the boat then maybe a complete new system with a manufacturers warranty is the way to go.

[Happysailor]

Perhaps if you consider buying a D1-30, it could pay off to look at the sourcing and selling/ trade in of your MD2030 and saildrive. as example:
https://www.botentekoop.nl/motor/2026-volvo-penta-new-volvo-penta-d1--30-27hp-marine-diesel-engine-saildrive-package-9673574/

Good luck with making your decision!

(On this HR, it was an easy job it seems: https://www.facebook.com/photo?fbid=10162975167739547&set=pcb.10161708250718589)