I am looking at a 2005 49' Defever with twin Perkins (365 hours). I
believe the model number is M225Ti. They are rated at 225 HP at 2500
RPM. Does anyone have experience with these engines? I consulted with a
top flight diesel mechanic. He was not impressed with the older models
but has not had contact with the newer ones so he did not know if there
had been substantial been upgrades in recent years.

Are parts easy to come by or are there a limited number of distributors?
Any comments on longevity?

Thanks for your input.

Boatless for the Moment

David, here's what I usually do if I have a concern about an engine, especially prices and availability.

Take the model and year of the engine(s) and call a Perkins dealer, or better yet a Perkins distributor. Give him a list of parts: starter, alternator, fuel pump, raw water pump, exhaust elbow, head gasket kit and heat exchanger; add others if you wish.

Ask for prices and availabilty. That will get you a better idea of what you are up against. Also ask them about the pros and cons of this model. Who better to ask than the distributor, whose answers can then modified by talking with mechanics.

There seems to be a hesitancy to believe dealers/distributors, but my experience is that they usually try hard to have satisfied customers, although the customer may not want to hear what they are being told. Either way, its just that more information to help.

Rudy
Briney Bug, Panama City, Fl

American Diesel in Kilmarnock, VA is a Perkins dealer and they are straight
shooters. Ask them. There have been changes and they will know if they are
significant. You want the gasket bearing surfaces to be larger than they
used to be. Good engines otherwise.

Ron Rogers