Request opinions on Volvo 4 cylinder 150 hp motors Any good

"Hello there. I am very intere

"Hello there. I am very interested in possibly buying an 1976 19.5' GlasPly cuddy cabin cruiser with a Volvo 4 cylinder 150hp I/O in it.
It's being sold by a broker who states that the engine was either rebuilt or new in 1994.
My question is are these engines any good? I spoke to a mechanic who said that they are nothing but grief. I suspect this is an actual Volvo motor and not a rebranded GM (unfortunaelty). Apparently they dont even have a choke.
The motor ran a bit rough and didn't exactly inspire confidence although it's only suposed to have 300 hours on it.
We love the boat otherwise.
Thanks in advance for your reply. "

"Opinions do vary, as you may

"Opinions do vary, as you may see.

http://www.marineengine.com/discus/messages/12487/26450.shtml

http://www.marineengine.com/discus/messages/12487/81897.shtml

http://www.marineengine.com/discus/messages/12487/81268.shtml

The Volvo Penta 4 cylinder engines are nothing but marinized car engines. Personally, I think they do the job if you take care of them, but I admit that the price of "dealer only parts" is outrageous. Solex carbs do not have a choke, but they don't need one, either: you just have to give the engine a bit of throttle (while in neutral) when starting. Also, removing the points and condenser from the distributor and installing a Pertronix electronic ignitor improver starting, idling and performance in general. Moreover, the Volvo Penta outdrives are, in my opinion, far better than their competitors'."

"Opinions do vary, as you may

"Opinions do vary, as you may see.

http://www.marineengine.com/discus/messages/12487/17984.shtml

http://www.marineengine.com/discus/messages/12487/26450.shtml

http://www.marineengine.com/discus/messages/12487/81897.shtml

http://www.marineengine.com/discus/messages/12487/81268.shtml

The Volvo Penta 4 cylinder engines are nothing but marinized car engines. Personally, I think they do the job if you take care of them, but I admit that the price of "dealer only parts" is outrageous. Solex carbs do not have a choke, but they don't need one, either: you just have to give the engine a bit of throttle (while in neutral) when starting. Also, removing the points and condenser from the distributor and installing a Pertronix electronic ignitor improver starting, idling and performance in general. Moreover, the Volvo Penta outdrives are, in my opinion, far better than their competitors'."

"Hey thanks Mr. Fisherman! I n

"Hey thanks Mr. Fisherman! I noticed that you are on Vancouver Island. Me too, in Victoria. Muchas Gracias Senor!
Any idea of what fuel usage at crusing speed on these motors? I'm no speed demon but would like to cruise at a comfortable 17 - 20 knots. I have heard varying opinions from 2-3 gph to 6-7 gph.
Also is it possible to retrofit say a Mercedes turbodeisel car engine to this leg if I end up buying this boat and having problems? I have had several older Mercedes deisel cars and am rather fond of the 5 cylinder turbos. They are very reliable and I think they would be better on fuel probably too. They are about 120 hp, would that be enough to plane and cruise at around 17-20 knots? (I am only thinking of this as a possible future senario)
Really appreciate your responces.
Tex"

"My former 17.5 fd Double Eagl

"My former 17.5 fd Double Eagle burned 20.8 liter per hour at 17.7 knots (1.18 liters per nautical mile), and 25.2 liters per hour at 20 knots (1.26 liters per nautical mile). Hope this gives you an idea, but fuel consimption vaires depending of the size of boat, type of propeller, how loaded the boat is, trim, weather conditions, etc.

No idea about retrofitting a Mercedes TD engine, but even if the bolt pattern for the bellhousing was the same (I don't know about that) I can foresee problems getting an exhaust manifold and exhaust pipe that will fit the transom shield. Also, diesels are much heavier. Unless you are very sure about the consequences of any mods/customization you intend to carry, I suggest you should sitck to the devil you know (a faithful 4 cyl VP gas). Unless, of course, you have deep pockets and are also willing to accept graciously any loses due to a potentially unsuccessful and unfinished project. "