Volvo Penta MD 2030

The Volvo Penta MD 2030 is a 29hp, normally aspirated three cylinder marine diesel engine based on the Perkins 103-10 base engine. A marine engine of advanced design manufactured from quality components.

The MD2030 is fitted with freshwater cooling as standard. This reduces internal corrosion and enables the engine to maintain a consistent and optimal working temperature under all conditions. To avoid galvanic corrosion the engine is equipped with the unique electrical insulation between engine and transmission.

Smooth running with very low vibration levels results from a dynamically balanced design incorporating a flywheel of high rotating mass and high efficiency rubber insulation. The engine’s high torque provides excellent operating characteristics to aid maneuvering, particularly in confined spaces.

Diesel School: Click to learn a little bit about the heritage of the MD 2030

How heavy is the Volvo Penta MD2030?

The different models of the Volvo Penta MD2030 weigh between 145 kg (320 lbs) and 153 kg (337 lbs). The dry weight of the standard engine equipped with both angles and straight reverse gear (MS2A or MS2L) is 145 kg (320 lbs). When the engine is equipped with the sail drive option (120S), the dry weight is 153 kg (337 lbs). Lubricating oil, coolant and any alternator upgrades will add to this weight.

Design Features of the MD2030

Engine and block

• Cylinder block and cylinder head manufactured from high grade cast iron. Crankcase features a rigid tunnel block design.
• Chrome molybdenum forged crankshaft, statically and dynamically balanced with integral counterweights.
• Pistons are cast from high silicon aluminum, are heat treated and fitted with two cast iron, chromium faced compression rings and a single oil ring.
• Replaceable, hardened valve seats
• Elastic coupling on flywheel

Engine mounting

• Tuned front and rear cushion-type rubber mounts. Adjustable.

Lubrication system

• Spin-on full flow oil filter
• Separate oil scavenger pipe
• Closed circuit crankcase ventilation

Fuel system

• Flange mounted, cam driven inIine injection pump
• Feed pump with hand primer
• Spin-on type fine fuel filter

Exhaust system

• Freshwater cooled exhaust manifold and seawater cooled exhaust elbow

Cooling system

• Freshwater cooling system governed by thermostat
• Tubular heat exchanger with integral expansion tank
• Coolant system prepared for hot water outlet fittings
• Easily accessible sea water pump and impeller

Electrical system

• 12 Volt corrosion-protected electrical system
• 14 Volt / 60 Amp marine alternator
• Charging regulator with electronic sensor for voltage drop compensation
• Glow plugs for cold starting
• Electric starter motor (1.2 kW output)
• Extension cable harness with plug-in connection available in various lengths

Specifications of the MD 2030 Engine

Feature	MD 2030
Number of Cylinders	3
Idle (no-load) speed (rpm)	850
Full load speed (rpm)	3900
Cylinder Diameter (mm)	75
Stroke (mm)	72
Displacement (cc)	950
Weight, engine without oil and water (kg)	129

Components of the MD 2030 Engine

Maintenance jobs for your Volvo Penta MD2030

• Changing the primary fuel filter on your marine diesel installation
• Checking the starter motor drive belt on your Volvo Penta MD2030
• Removal and inspection of the air filter on the Volvo Penta MD2030

Winterising jobs for your Volvo Penta MD2030

Before haul-out:

• Volvo Penta MD2030 engine oil and filter change

After haul-out:

• Flushing salt-water from the Volvo Penta MD2030 and introducing anti-freeze
• Clean and winterise the raw-water filter

Before launch:

• Stern gear: Grease your lip seal or refill the greaser on your stuffing box
• Changing the Secondary Fuel filter on the Volvo Penta MD2030
• Removing and testing the thermostat on your Volvo Penta MD2030

After launch:

• Pre-season checklist for commissioning your marine diesel engine

Video Clip: Click to watch a video of a Volvo Penta MD2030 running

A smart skipper learns from the lessons of others.

In our Volvo Penta MD2000 Series Almanac section, we have a series of previous questions and queries from MD2000 series engine owners along with answers. Many of these have been adapted from discussions on the “Volvo Penta Marine Engines owners group” Facebook group which is a fantastic resource for getting technical help.

Do you want to get future VP MD2000 Series Almanac articles straight to your inbox? Sign up to our VP MD2000 Series Owners’ Group today and we’ll make sure that you’re first to see them. And we definitely won’t share your email address with anyone else.