Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

[bruceb58]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

You wouldn't if your crank pulley is 2" from the bulkhead, like many are...

That is true!

I would like to say, I would think that couldn't happen.

 

[Maclin]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

I have seen posts where Bravo owners had the same issue with their belt driven ones with some boats, all design issues I'm thinkin'. The 1991 VP 570 engine in mine is accessible from all sides and front with engine house removed, crank driven pump. I had it off last year to clean up all the pulleys, no problem with access. Feelin' pretty lucky about now, I did not look at any of that when I bought it!

My pre-winter draining routine takes about 20 minutes, and most of that is getting the doghouse off and out of the way.

 

[JustJason]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

You wouldn't if your crank pulley is 2" from the bulkhead, like many are...

From a mechanics standpoint that's plenty of room. =)

 

[vintage2]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

When it comes to what is best it all comes down to personal preference. After fifty years (over thirty-five years professionally) working on everything with engines from boats and cars, to aircraft I have come to know that reliability goes hand in hand with regular maintenance. I have seen some of the most expensive cars and boats be cheaper in the long run than value priced ones due to proper maintenance programs - either owner or professional.
When it comes to aircraft you can't have failures (especially in flight) but they do happen. It is the same for boats, engine or prop failures far out at sea or in rough weather is not my idea of having a good time. Proper maintenance and a though inspection before starting the engine can save the day.
That being said, every mechanical device built by man has had its problems, but one of the best ways to determine brand or model reliability is to check for recalls. Recalls translate to design or manufacturing errors. That holds true for the boat along with the powerplant and outdrive.
Good luck with your hunt.

 

[frantically relaxing]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

Can't blame Volvo or Merc for how and where a boat builder puts the engine...

Such as this pic I found, obviously a 7.4 Merc, have no idea the boat mfr, but how would you like to replace the crank mounted water pump if that was a Volvo? Or replacing ANYTHING on that engine! At least the oil filter is where you can get at it, but changing spark plugs would be a freakin' nightmare! Or how about the starter? Or draining water from the block?

---ok, so maybe all those walls will come out, but even that don't look easy!


By contrast, this is the 8.1 in my Chaparral, everything's a piece o' cake to get to! You can actually SEE the water pump!

But-- between my alternator and power steering pump, would a pump mounted there be so bad?

 

[bruceb58]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

In the merc picture, that whole bulkhead area can be removed as its very similar to my boat. I can reach my belt driven water pump but its easier if I take it off.

The main reason I like the crank mounted water pump is they seem to last longer. I have replaced mine a couple times. My theory is the side force of the belt tension causes it to fail.

I like all the room you have in the Chaparral! Very similar to my brother's 26' Formula.

 

[thumpar]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

Mine is similar to the merc pic also. Crownline put holes in the sides though that are just covered by a snap on vinyl cover for easy access to the engine. I can even sit down in the side storage to work on it. I had to replace my impeller at that end of last season.

 

[agallant80]

Re: Mercruiser or Volvo? Which is best?

Can't blame Volvo or Merc for how and where a boat builder puts the engine...

Such as this pic I found, obviously a 7.4 Merc, have no idea the boat mfr, but how would you like to replace the crank mounted water pump if that was a Volvo? Or replacing ANYTHING on that engine! At least the oil filter is where you can get at it, but changing spark plugs would be a freakin' nightmare! Or how about the starter? Or draining water from the block?

---ok, so maybe all those walls will come out, but even that don't look easy!


By contrast, this is the 8.1 in my Chaparral, everything's a piece o' cake to get to! You can actually SEE the water pump!

But-- between my alternator and power steering pump, would a pump mounted there be so bad?

Here is my merc engine. There is lots of space. Though I have messed with the water pump before. Crank mounted like your Volvo would be so much easier.