Volvo Penta 501 reliability

[9horses]

Hi,

I'm looking at a 1993 Carver 2828 (branded as a 300) with twin Volvo Penta 501 V-drives. I'm somewhat familiar with Mercruiser and Crusader. I have never even thought of Volvos. Do any of you have experience with Volvo Penta with V-drive? Good? Bad? What are your opinions? I would be using this boat in fresh and salt water.

Thank you.
Scott

[9horses]

Hi,

I have no experience with Volvo Penta 501's. I am looking at a Carver 2828 (branded as a 300) and it has twin 501's with V-drives. Do any of you have an opinion on Volvo vs Mercruiser or the old Crusaders?

Thank you.
Scott

[Ramsport47]

I work at a marina near Cleveland. In my opinion, in order of preference, Volvo, Crusader and lastly, Mercruiser. They all use the same engines, however Volvo, and to some degree Crusader, make the user serviceable items easier to get to and/or do. The transmissions and v-drives would be the same regardless of engine brand, so that is a non issue. If you've ever changed impellers in a Mercruiser inboard.....you'll WANT the ease of the Volvos! Oh, the parts are NOT more expensive!

[9horses]

Thanks for your reply. Coming from a mechanic, that is reassuring.