Westerbeke Diesels

kccollbran · #1 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

On both of my recently acquired boats, I have Westerbeke diesels. They both run well, but I don't have any experience with this brand. Other than changing filters regularly, is there any other issues that I should be aware of or watch for.

chucklesR · #2 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

I've only had mine (westerbeke 30b) for a year, but they have been the standard on my boat for the past ten years. Our (gemini) owners site is VERY active (10 - 20 emails a day)- no one reports any unusual issues; most of us love them.
I love the self bleeding fuel system and easy fresh water flushing system on mine, changing oil is pretty simple compared to most also, of course your installation will differ.

Valiente · #3 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

I have a Westerbeke also, and after a great deal of study, and preparatory to world cruising, I decided that it's better to "refresh" the existing engine (a part-rebuild, if needed) than to install a new engine. The simplicity, the access, the availability of parts (again, this took research) and the confidence-inspiring mass of the thing seem worth maintaining.

"Maintaining" being the key word: Service your engine regularly, change the fluids, watch for leaks, change the filters, etc., and it can give decades of reliable service.

sailortjk1 · #4 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

Access to the impeller is very poor on our westerbeke.
The engine itself has been very dependable.

billangiep · #5 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

I assisted in the delivery of a Gemini and the only neg. point I had with the Westerbeke was the electric fuel pump. I'd recommend carrying a spare and also if you loose your 12V power supply it will surely sputter to a stop.

ronbo1 · #6 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

I would guess that Westerbeke engines would differ significantly from one model to another. What problems I have had with my 82B may not apply to other models. One problem I had was with the fuel filter bracket breaking from resonant vibration. The factory redesigned it. I believe the 82B is no longer offered.

Ronbo

Sabreman · #7 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

I had a W13 on my Sabre 28 and now have a W33 on my Sabre 38. I agree with sailortjk1 - it's hard to get to the impeller on the W33, but was easy on the W13. Great engine. Parts are a bit pricy, but I'm very pleased.

You may want to consider having the injectors serviced (professionally) if the engine is getting up in age. On my W33, beside filters & oil, I've replaced the starter solenoid, water pump, hoses, exchanger endcaps, and the transmission drain plug crush ring. Not bad for an '84 engine.

T37Chef · #8 (**permalink**) 03-21-2008

Not to veer to much form the thread, but I have a lead on a older W50 (exact replacement for my current motor) that was taken from another T37, asking price $3500...

In your guys opinion, is that a good buy? I am thinking I could either rebuild this one while having the other for the season, then switch them out and have my current one for parts?

Mechanic (the seller) says the motor is in good condition for a 20 year old engine, he has replaced or serviced a lot of the engine, but has not said exactly what he did? Um?

Valiente · #9 (**permalink**) 03-22-2008

Ask more questions and price out the cost of a total rebuild. I have two and a half Atomic 4s in my garage, one a drop-in, the other a parts source.

But your garage may differ. Also, you may end up with two equally worn engines with the same issues. Still, putting a working engine in stasis (oiled and fogged and kept dry under wraps) could save your season if you ever need the current engine taken out for service.