I am in the process of purchasing my first boat. It seems like a fairly good deal except the fact that the engine was rebuilt due to the impeller going out last year. It is a '99 Volvo 5L. From what I can tell from the paper work, it has a remachined block, new pistons, rings, gaskets, lifters, oil pump, cam brg set, exhaust seals and elbows, water pumps, and of course impeller. My question is this, as a new boat owner, what kind of reliability can I expect from a rebuilt engine? The last thing I want is a lemon for the first one. I am having a buyers inspection performed. Any advice is appreciated.
A properly rebuilt engine should have as long a life as a new engine. It all depends on the skill of the rebuilder. This is why I recommend remanufactured over rebuilt engines. Remanufactured engines are built to a pre existing set of standards and the human error factor is eliominated in a lot of the process. I personally do not rebuild engines for customers, I sell them remanufactured engines.It does look as if the rebuilder tried to be thorough. You don't mention rod and main bearings, but I assume they were replaced.Is the warranty transferable? Do you know who rebuilt it? The number one thing you want to watch out for is water in the oil. It is possible a cracked block got rebuilt. Don't laugh, it's happened, and it still is happening. Do not buy the boat without a test drive.
Chris---why is he selling the boat? Is he buying another one?There are thousands of boats out there just like this one that have not been overheated due to the impeller burning up.If you are patient, you can find one exactly like it with fewer hours. Do your search, get all the maintenance documentation, and do a test drive before you buy.You can offer $$ over the internet contingent on a mechanical survey and a sea trial---that is a bonafide offer as good as a signed agreement. If they will not work with your offer and these contingencies, run the other way.
Thanks for the feedback. The motor was rebuilt by a reputable dealer in the area. The guy selling it is not buying a new boat. I do have the paper work from the person doing the rebuild and the company that provided the remachined block - plan to check with them also.
My only point was you do not owe him for the cost of his rebuild. Check the value of the boat and trailer in NADA book or the Kelly Marine Bluebook and start from there. If anything, the boat should depreciate more with the engine situation, unless someone offers a warranty.
welcome aboard Chris,if the rebuilder won't warranty his work to you,seek a 2nd opinion. spend the extra bucks to disputeor confirm current running condition of the motorregardless of what past service records state...better to waste a little money now imo.
PS----he should have had a warning on the overheating of that motor long before he did the damage you speak of. I would want to know exactly what happened before I put money in this boat.
new boat owner - rebuilt engine?
I personally do not rebuild engines for customers, I sell them remanufactured engines.
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