Should You Rebuild or Replace Your Volvo Penta Engine? Key Factors to Consider

Every marine engine, sooner or later, hits a stage where its performance deteriorates. In the case of Volvo Penta owners, this decline in performance is frequently followed by a significant question: Is it better to rebuild the engine or replace it with a new one? The answer varies from case to case and mainly hinges on the condition and age of the engine and your future plans with the boat. Here, we explain how to assess your choices and figure out whether it is more economical and practical to rebuild or to replace your Volvo Penta marine parts. 

Rebuild or Replace? Understanding the Basics

Rebuilding an engine means taking it apart, cleaning or machining the parts, and changing the worn parts such as pistons, bearings, seals, gaskets, and valves. Basically, it is bringing the engine back to performance levels as per the factory specifications. Whereas a replacement refers to the installation of a new, remanufactured, or used engine instead of your existing one. Replacement can be with the same model or a newer one, depending on the availability and compatibility.

When Rebuilding Is the Smart Choice

Rebuilding tends to be the correct option most of the time when the motor has been well-maintained, and the harm is simply internal wear rather than a violent break. A Volvo Penta engine rebuild is the way to go if your engine has a low or moderate number of hours. 

It could bring back the performance to the level of a new one at a fraction of the cost. Nevertheless, it is very important to install only parts that meet the factory specifications and to use the services of technicians who are familiar with the intricacies of the Volvo Penta marine parts in Australia.

When Replacement Is the Smart Choice

As a general rule, substituting a complete unit is the best option for a situation where a Volvo Penta engine has suffered irreparable damage, such as a thrown rod, cracked block or major saltwater corrosion. Besides, in case of an engine getting old, and the spare parts becoming difficult or expensive to obtain, it is logical to replace your engine with a new one. 

New or remanufactured engines provide better reliability, performance, and fuel efficiency, as well as warranty coverage. Volvo Penta has repower kits, which are equipped with new controls and displays, thus making the transition less obvious and more compatible with the existing systems of your boat.

Key Factors to Consider Before Making Your Decision

To decide, you might want to consider the following factors:

1. Maintenance History

An engine is a better option for a rebuild when it has been well taken care of with regular oil changes, coolant flushing, and proper winterisation. An engine with a poor maintenance history is more likely to be replaced.

2. Engine Hours and Age

A marine parts Volvo Penta can last between 1500 and 4000 hours of usage, with maintenance being an important factor in its longevity. If your engine is getting close to or already passing that limit, it would probably be more beneficial to get a new one.

3. Damage Type

The surface wear and the internal degradation can be rebuilt. However, the block cracks, overheating damage, and saltwater infiltration are more expensive and dangerous to repair.

4. Use of Boats

A local cruise a few times a year may be a good reason for you to have a rebuild. In contrast, a replacement will give you more reliability and support if you run long distances, fish offshore, or operate commercially.

Why You Should Consult a Volvo Penta Expert?

Once you are thinking of tearing down or changing the engine, a certified Volvo Penta technician should first check your engine. They will do a compression test, oil analysis, and overall mechanical assessment. 

Also, they can help you figure out the indirect costs of both alternatives, for instance, the period of rest, warranty, and compatibility with your current installation. They provide a solution that is halfway between complete replacement and the do-it-yourself rebuild.

Final Thoughts

Whether you should rebuild or replace your Volvo Penta marine engine is mainly a question of the engine's condition, cost, and your confidence in it. Check out the condition of your engine first, then think about the total cost of the lifecycle. 

If you are still unsure, why not call Volvo Penta marine mechanics for advice? Contact Challenor Marine today, which specialises in boat repairs. Challenor Marine has more than 65 years of combined experience in the marine industry with factory-trained marine mechanics, servicing any kind of boat.

FAQs

Is the Volvo Penta a good marine engine?

One of the most powerful and at the same time most environmentally friendly options for boaters who are serious about performance and reliability is the Volvo Penta motor.

How long do Volvo Penta engines last?

For the Volvo Penta 715 D-12S engine, 900 hours is considered moderate usage. Generally, the engine can last 2,000 to 3,000 hours if it is well taken care of.