3.0L volvo penta

[mhunt]

Hello all, new to the forum, new to boating.

I'm looking to possibly purchase a 17' 1995 sunbird runabout with the 3.0L volvo penta engine. I want this boat for mainly recreational use, i.e. tubing and wakeboarding and just 'running about'. I'd love to be able to afford a v-8 powered rig but that's not in the budget at this time. Will the 3.0L suffice? Will it pull a 185lbs wakeboarder? What kind of performance modifications are out there for this engine, if any? Finally, what's the word on Sunbird.....reliable or crap? Thanks in advance.

-Matt

 

[mhunt]

Re: 3.0L volvo penta

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[Limited-Time]

Re: 3.0L volvo penta

Many a boater has started out with the 3.0, and lots have stuck with it. My suggestion is to lake test the craft loaded as you would for a day on the lake, coolers, friends, gear, and whatever else you'd drag along. And I'd go as far as strapping on a board an doing a set. That should answer all your questions. If the seller is not willing to allow that, find another seller.

 

[Bondo]

Re: 3.0L volvo penta

Will the 3.0L suffice?

Probably,....... That's a pretty Small boat..........

Will it pull a 185lbs wakeboarder?

Probably,........ But,..You Might have to leave a few of the Spectators on shore.....

What kind of performance modifications are out there for this engine, if any?

None,.......... Don't even Think about it.........

Finally, what's the word on Sunbird.....reliable or crap?

It's an Entry Level boat............. Doesn't make it Bad,...... But it's not known as a Quality Craft......

Thanks in advance.

Ayuh,......... Your Welcome,....... Anytime.......

 

[4winnsskipper]

Re: 3.0L volvo penta

I have a 17foot four winns with only 30 hours on it, it pulled a 200lb skier out of the water no problem with 3 others on board, and 22 pitch prop!!!!! I picked up a 19 pitch prop and the boat just jumps out of the water like a bat out of hell, although i cannot go full throttle otherwise it will over -rev, i use this pitch for heavy loads / skiing. Most of the torque will come from how you prop the boat, 4 blade, 3 blade, and pitch are really important. Its really easy to swap props, so your 3.0L should have no issues on a 16-17 foot boat...plus working on the inline 4 is CAKE!!! i love mine!!!

 

[Robj]

Re: 3.0L volvo penta

I have skied behind a 40 hp outboard at 3000 feet, I weigh 200 lbs. It was able to get me up. Your 3.0 should have no problems pulling a wakeboarder or skier. Plus the Volvo makes a great drive that should serve you well.

Have a great day,

Rob