bertram31.com

In my experience of using both D4s and D6s in Superyacht tenders they are good motors but let down by bad electronics. In one year we had to replace 3 complete (twin) throttle quadrants and ECUs from 4 engines. Volvo simply could not find the problems.

After those tenders we chose Steyr engines for the replacements. Had similar problems with those, but less frequent.

....and that’s why I chose good old fashioned mechanical Yanmars for my B31 rebuild last year!!!

Volvo parts are not cheap. I guess they figured the fuel savings using 4 cylinder Volvo made up for the added parts expense.

The 31 I repowered with D4's turned out to be a battle wagon and a very nice install, but 3 computers per engine, like has been mentioned, they were replaced multiple times.

While this was years ago, I hope they have the computer issue figured out or Tropic is in for it.

It says they chose them because reliability was their primary concern...

If I want reliability I go Japanese. Every time.

Just funny how they went from simple old tech screaming 4cyl Detroit Diesels to Volvo's.

In my opinion Volvo marine motors have been synonymous with over-engineered and over priced parts.

I'm sure they did their homework...

On paper they look good. They're modern, and the Volvo brand is strong. Maybe someone in an office somewhere made the decision!

i had a TAMD41P 4 banger and that thing would shake the boat apart at idle, when i first bought her i freaked out and thought something was wrong. 200 rps higher and she purred like kitten

Well, many of us will get to see first hand how it is working come this August. I am guessing UV would not approve. But I am looking forward to seeing for myself!

Dug

While I am not sure UV would approve...I have a feeling he would not hold back from jumping on a quieter, quicker 31 over a screaming DD.

Heck, they make break down and cost a bundle to get them back up and running when parts come in...but that would not be his problem.