Volvo Penta opinions

[blackhawkdc]

I'm looking at purchasing a boat with a Volvo Penta 170 horse powertrain with a 280 outdrive. Any things to look for on this set up? any advice? Good or bad experiences? Thanks!

Seth

 

[cm5408]

Re: Volvo Penta opinions

the aquamatic outdrives (like the 280 that you are looking at) are rock solid outdrives. gear linkage is nice and tight witout any grinding.

my biggest complaint is that the earily versions did not have a trim option, only tilt - meaning you cannot adjust the trim of the outdrive while in water/motion like a mercruiser or later model volvo sx.

next complaint is that prop selection is very limited (no SS, 4 blade, no cupping, or increased rake) and the replacement props are not cut and engineered like the newer style - you can have a prop shop fit you into a newer prop with some hub work

lastly, they are known for a bit of water ingestion into the outdrive. Change the outdrive oil yearly to prevent issues.

 

[blackhawkdc]

Re: Volvo Penta opinions

I apologize, I had my information a little off. Talked to the guy some more and realized that it actually has the 270 outdrive. How are these for units? Still no trim I assume.

Thanks,

Seth

 

[tommays]

Re: Volvo Penta opinions

I would find out which motor it has and look into the parts prices as some older volvo motors have insane parts prices

And the drive needs to be looked at as anythink can be killed in the wrong hands


Tommays

 

[jastacey]

Re: Volvo Penta opinions

The 270-280-290 drive will give you good service, if you maintain them, when you buy the boat plan on getting factory manuals, also change out the drive bellows and check out the u-joints, replace them if they look questionable, I'd look at the top dipstick ( remove it ) and see if the oil is milky ( could be bad prop seals ), if the oil is low, it could be that the upper oil seal, is bad ( it really is not that hard if your inclined to turn your own wrenches ), props can be had if you have the cash, ( ebay ) but will take some time to find. I've never worked on the inline Volvo motors, so I can't comment on those issues, all in all good drives, easy to work on