Is a volvo penta a good inboard motor?

Question

the exact motor is a 3.0GS 4 cylinder Volvo engine 135 hp on a 1996 19.5' glastron. take a look at it here : http://minneapolis.craigslist.org/boa/754463654.html

Answer 1

I know people that use the Penta Volvo engine, and swear by them.  However, I have a friend that has one on his boat and keeps a spare engine to install.  He has also had trouble with his engine.  This worries me.

I would prefer to have one I can get parts and service worldwide.  I don't knot if Penta Volvo has this.

Answer 2

As good or better than any. The price is a little high for a 13 year old boat though.

Answer 3

This engine was designed as a marine engine.  It uses anti-freeze in the block for cooling.  Volvo had a reputation as one of the better engines in this class.  The drive is the single prop, but has the hydraulic tilt and trim.  As with any used boat, I recommend a test run, or have a mechanic check it, but this engine and drive had a good reputation with mechanics. Good Luck!!!

Answer 4

I may be biased because I used to work for Volvo, but their engines are pretty tough and reliable.

Answer 5

I have a Volvo 5.7GS with the same SX outdrive you are looking at. It is a 1999 model and I have put 600hrs on it with no troubles.

Answer 6

First the engine on the boat in the pic is an I/O or "Inboard/Outboard" and Volvo builds a great engine. Averaging about 22.5 hrs per season (272 divided by 12) could be considered low hours and as clean as the boat/trailer is and at the price listed would be a great deal but I'd recommend checking the price on NADA.com. Ask the seller who did the servicing on her and if they have written records. You may want to have her looked at by a professional mechanic too but a test drive is a definite must!

Good luck and good boating!