diesel engine-New? or?

[qm]

My two kids and their two live on a 47 foot center cockpit "ketch" in Australia. After nursing the engine for a few years, they have decided thay need a new diesel to power the craft. Do they have to go new or is there another option--like warrented rebuilt?? I did not advise them to buy the boat, but they know it all! But sometimes I think I can throw out a suggestion. :eek: QMBob

[ssor]

Have they sought a good mechanic to assess the engine? Rebuilds are fine if done by competant craftsmen. Sometimes very good used engines may be found but one must always wonder why it was removed from its home.

[mmd]

Several of my clients have had good success with engines that have been rebuilt by a dealer or a reputable rebuild company. Unless they have a long-standing relationship with the mechanic, I would avoid purchasing an engine from "Louie, the best mechanic on the coast who works out of his garage". No offence meant to all those fine independant mechanics out there, but there is a history of disappointments from these types of shops.

[Con LanAdo]

every 18 wheeler goes rebuild sooner or later so they still keep ticken

[uncas]

What exactly is wrong with the old one? Would it be cheaper to have what you have rebuilt instead of buying another or going new?
You really don't specify.....

[Bob Smalser]

Gotta know what the motor is to be of any help...and how many hours on it.

If it has wet liners ala most 18-wheelers, it'd probably be an expensive shame to junk it. Also, a number of marine engines were designed to be completely rebuilt in place.

You'd be surprised at the number of big trucks with over a million miles on the same engine.

If it a non-lined "throwaway", it's a mixed bag and more akin to a gas engine....much more difficult to rebuild and generally less life on the rebuilds.