[C320-list] Another White Smoke from Perkins M30 Question

[Jack Brennan]

If I were you, I think my first move would be to find a good mechanic and pay a couple of hundred dollars for a good assessment on the engine. Rebuilding a good engine is always much cheaper than going new.

With new diesels, the big issue is whether you’re willing to go with one that has a computer board. They run more efficiently, but you’re SOL if something on the board goes. No chance of doing a backyard fix when you’re out cruising.

I believe Beta Marine still sells new diesels without the computer board.

Also, check on the prices of replacement parts before you pick a brand. Parts for the ancient Volvos were staggeringly expensive. I don’t know whether that’s still the case. Yanmar is a little better, but a 55-amp alternator you can buy for $110 on the Internet goes for $900 or so with a Yanmar sticker.

Jack Brennan
Sonas, 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.





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________________________________
From: C320-list <c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com> on behalf of Bill Carr via C320-list <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com>
Sent: Monday, January 22, 2024 4:02:08 PM
To: C320-List at catalina320.com <C320-List at catalina320.com>
Cc: Bill Carr <bcarr8239 at comcast.net>
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Another White Smoke from Perkins M30 Question

I had my Perkins replaced with a Volvo penta. They share the same block. I’ve been very happy with the performance. Much quieter. No smoke starts promptly.
Bill Carr
Utopia, Hull 31

Sent from my iPhone

> On Jan 22, 2024, at 12:14 PM, Jeff Smith via C320-list <c320-list at lists.catalina320.com> wrote:
> Mark,
>
> It sounds more like a blown head gasket than a cracked block. That would be
> where I would start looking.
>
> Jeff
> #121
>
>> On Mon, Jan 22, 2024 at 3:03 PM Mark Cole via C320-list <
>> c320-list at lists.catalina320.com> wrote:
>>
>> My Perkins M30 (hull #8, 1993) has started to smoke constantly when
>> running.  White smoke with maybe a little blue, it stays close to the water
>> and doesn’t dissipate.  I replaced the mixing elbow a few years ago and
>> still have great cooling water flow but the engine does overheat slightly
>> when I run over 2000 RPM and towing an inflatable dingy.  I have tired a
>> few repairs but no change.
>>
>> The most recent development is decreasing coolant and an increase of oil
>> level on the dip stick.  There is also now a sheen on the water around the
>> exhaust.  Not bright fuel sheen, but dull brown oil sheen.  Does this sound
>> like a cracked block?  Is this the end of this engine, or are there more
>> tests/repairs I should contemplate?
>>
>> Has anyone repowered their C320?  What engine fits best?  Rough costs?
>>
>> Thanks for any input,
>>
>> Mark
>> Fiddler’s Green #8
>> Port Townsend, WA