Volvo 270 Opinions on my options?

[pcmpete]

Hi all, here is my current setup:

AQ130c with a 270 outdrive.
The AQ130c has developed a major oil leak and needs a rebuild. I also have a spare 280 outdrive lying around (needs new transom shield, but does have the gear ratio for a V8).
I am looking for what my options are. I would like to keep the 270 as it is attached to the boat and wondering what engines would successfully fit to the 270.

Or would I have more options changing to the 280 (if it fits the hole in the transom)

Or should I rebuild the AQ130c or get a replacement AQ130c.

This is going to be this winter's project so I want to get all the facts now and start collecting the parts I need.

I don't mind staying with the 130 size motor, I just want a good running combo at the end of my work.

So, what are the thoughts of the iboats volvo experts??

Thank you for your time.

 

[captmello]

Re: Volvo 270 Opinions on my options?

To switch over to a V8 you'd need all the parts from the engine bellhousing back, not just the leg. You'd need to change motor mounts etc. Plus that is a lot of motor for a 16' boat.

I guess I stick with the 130, Why do you think it needs an overhaul? Where is it leaking oil? Have you done a compression check lately?

 

[PiratePast40]

Re: Volvo 270 Opinions on my options?

You could stick with the 130 but since the motor is out of production, parts will be hard to find and may be quite expensive. You didn't say what was wrong with the motor so it's really hard to say what needs to be rebuilt or replaced. The nice thing about the 130 series of motors is that they are strong pullers and can give up to 130 horsepower. Some of the newer OHC Volvo 4 cylinders will bolt right up but you sacrafice some horsepower and go to an aluminum head plus you will need different engine accessories.

It's certainly possible to put in a V8 but the amount of modification needed and cost of the newer transom shield, Y pipe, and, motor may make it financially unfeasable.

You should really see exactly what's wrong with the existing motor before you make a final decision. Since you're planning on pulling it anyway, you can do a teardown and see what's needed then.

 

[pcmpete]

Re: Volvo 270 Opinions on my options?

I am not exactly sure where the oil leak is coming from. There is alot of smoke from the engine when warm, and during a four hour outing the oil level on the dip stick would go from 'MAX' to barely on the tip of the dipstick. Everytime I start the motor it blows out grey smoke.

I have the Y-pipe exhaust for the 280 drive also and the transom shield, but the shield needs replaced.

I have not done a compression test yet, the motor does run and pulls good, but I fear the oil leak problem could lead to bigger problems. (Plus I need a winter project )

What are the motor options for the 270 leg?

Thanks again.

 

[robjen1019]

Re: Volvo 270 Opinions on my options?

First off, you can just swap the gears in the lower units on the 270 with the 280. I am pretty sure you can just change the entire lower unit. all the 200 series are interchangeable.
I just swapped a 4 cylinder aq 151 for a 8 cylinder aq 225. The motor mounts are the same distance from the transom and about 3 inches wider per side, and the stringer needs to be 2 inches higher ( I fiber glassed in a 2x6). My stringer ran across the front of the motor instead of the sides which made the switch fairly simple.
This was all done on a 19.5 foot cuddy.
The positive is that I gained 9 mph and the motor seems to run at a lower rpm while cruising
The negative, weight, with the 151 the boat had a real nice balances float in the water, now it is stern heavy.
Has more power, but takes more to get on plane because of weight. I am able to adjust with my trim tabs, but definitely doesn't come out of the water as fast as it used to.
Another neg is that it uses more fuel, however I was expecting that

If I were you, I would start looking for a aq 151 or aq 171. Both are redblock volvo's designed after the turbo charged blocks used in the 80's cars. The 171's have the 16 valve head, but are really hard to come by. You wouldn't have to change your gears and you would get a little more power and less weight. The Bell housing will mate right up to your current transom. I don't know about the motor mounts, but if you aren't afraid of fiber glassing its not that hard to adjust them.

If you need any measurements off the aq151, send me a pm. I still have it sitting in my garage waiting to go in another boat.