Volvo Penta D4-180 Marine Diesel Engine: Advanced 180hp Power
Common Rail Performance Meets Volvo Penta Reliability
The Volvo Penta D4-180 marine diesel engine represents the perfect balance of modern performance and proven reliability, delivering 180 horsepower from a sophisticated 4-cylinder common rail platform. At Wave Inboard Motors, our factory-certified technicians have extensive experience with the D4 series, making us your trusted source for professional marine engine installation and maintenance of these advanced powerplants.
This 180hp marine diesel engine features state-of-the-art common rail fuel injection and Volvo Penta’s Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) system, providing exceptional fuel efficiency and precise control. For comprehensive technical details, consult the 【Volvo Penta D4 Operator’s Manual】 for operating procedures and safety information. The D4-180 is ideally suited for motor yachts 35-45 feet, performance sailboats, and commercial vessels requiring dependable power with low emissions.
Technical Specifications
| Specification | Detail |
|---|---|
| Model | Volvo Penta D4-180 |
| Engine Type | 4-Cylinder, 4-stroke, Turbocharged & Aftercooled |
| Displacement | 3.7 L (3700 cc) |
| Max Output | 180 HP (132 kW) @ 3500 RPM |
| Fuel System | Common Rail with Electronic Control |
| Control System | Electronic Vessel Control (EVC) |
| Cooling System | Heat Exchanger (Freshwater Cooling) |
| Starting System | 24V Electric Start |
| Alternator Output | 115A (as standard) |
| Dry Weight | 458 kg (1010 lbs) |
| Dimensions (LxWxH) | 1123mm x 767mm x 865mm |
| Emissions Compliance | EPA Tier 3, EU RCD Stage II |
[Image: Technical diagram showing D4-180 common rail system and key components]
*Alt-text: Volvo Penta D4-180 technical diagram highlighting common rail injection system*
Advanced Engineering Features
Common Rail Precision
The D4-180’s common rail fuel system delivers exceptional efficiency and smooth operation. For detailed maintenance procedures and service intervals, refer to the 【Volvo Penta D4 Service Manual】 available through our parts department. This advanced system maintains constant high pressure to the injectors, ensuring perfect atomization and combustion across all RPM ranges.
Electronic Vessel Control
The integrated EVC system provides complete engine monitoring and control. When planning your 【yacht repower project】, the EVC system allows seamless integration with modern vessel electronics and provides valuable diagnostic information to our technicians during 【annual marine engine maintenance】.
Competitor Comparison
| Feature | Volvo Penta D4-180 | Yanmar 4LH-170 | Cummins QSB5.9-180 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel System | Common Rail Electronic | Mechanical Injection | Common Rail Electronic |
| Power | 180 HP @ 3500 RPM | 170 HP @ 3300 RPM | 180 HP @ 3000 RPM |
| Control System | EVC Integrated | Basic Mechanical | SmartCraft Compatible |
| Weight | 1010 lbs (458 kg) | 925 lbs (420 kg) | 1250 lbs (567 kg) |
| Service Network | Global Volvo Penta | Global Yanmar | Global Cummins |
| Ideal For | Modern yachts, integrated systems | Traditional vessels | Heavy-duty applications |
Verdict: The D4-180 leads in modern electronic integration and fuel efficiency. While the Yanmar offers simpler mechanics and the Cummins provides industrial durability, the Volvo Penta delivers the best balance of performance, weight, and advanced features for modern yacht applications.
Installation & Repower Considerations
When considering the D4-180 for your 【marine engine repower】, several factors ensure optimal performance:
Space Requirements:
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Adequate clearance for service access (refer to 【Volvo Penta D4 Installation Manual】)
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Proper ventilation for cooling airflow
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Structural support for engine weight
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EVC system integration planning
Performance Matching:
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Proper propeller selection for your hull type
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【Choosing the right HP for your vessel】 consultation available
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【Single vs twin engine installation】 analysis for multi-engine setups
[Image: D4-180 installation in a motor yacht showing proper service clearances]
*Alt-text: Properly installed Volvo Penta D4-180 in motor yacht engine room*
Maintenance & Support
Scheduled Service Program
Our 【comprehensive marine maintenance】 program for the D4-180 includes:
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Regular fuel filter changes (critical for common rail systems)
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EVC system diagnostics and software updates
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Cooling system service and corrosion prevention
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【Volvo Penta certified repairs】 by factory-trained technicians
Technical Resources
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【D4-180 Troubleshooting Guide】 for common issues
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【Parts and accessories catalog】 for maintenance items
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【Winterization procedures】 for seasonal storage
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【Engine monitoring setup】 for EVC system optimization
Honest Assessment: Pros & Cons
| Pros | Cons |
|---|---|
| Excellent fuel efficiency | Requires specialized diagnostic tools |
| Smooth, quiet operation | Higher initial cost than mechanical engines |
| Integrated EVC monitoring | Sensitive to fuel quality |
| Global service support | Complex electronic systems |
| Low emissions compliance |
Next Steps & Technical Support
The Volvo Penta D4-180 represents smart investment for vessel owners who value modern efficiency and reliable performance. Whether you’re repowering an existing vessel or specifying engines for a new build, our technical team can provide:
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Engine selection consultation
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Installation planning services
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Performance projections
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Operating cost analysis
Access Technical Documents:
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【D4-180 Operator’s Manual】 – Daily operation and basic maintenance
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【D4-180 Service Manual】 – Detailed repair procedures
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【Installation Guide】 – Proper mounting and alignment
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【EVC System Manual】 – Electronic control setup
[Image: Wave Inboard Motors technician using diagnostic computer with D4-180]
*Alt-text: Certified technician performing electronic diagnostics on Volvo Penta D4-180*
Contact us today to discuss how the D4-180 can power your next project. Our 【Volvo Penta certified technicians】 are ready to provide expert guidance and professional installation services.
Continue your research:
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【Common Rail Diesel Technology Guide】
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【Electronic Vessel Control Systems】
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【Marine Engine Emissions Compliance】
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【Cost of Marine Engine Repower】

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