VOLVO PENTA REPOWER FOR AJ WANDERLUST
During the summer we carried out an engine repower in preparation for a 3,000 nautical mile Trans-Atlantic crossing for AJ Wanderlust, a Jeanneau 45 which had sustained severe fire damage to its engine room, rendering the old engine unsalvageable.
For a vessel that has such an active cruising and racing calendar, and is a participant on the major offshore circuit, it was important that the new engine’s performance matched the demands of the vessel and her skipper. Working closely with the owner, the decision was made to install a Volvo Penta D2-75 inboard marine diesel engine known for its superior reliability, performance, and strength – ideally suited for both the customer and the vessel’s requirements for this epic crossing.
AJ Wanderlust’s owner chose the Volvo Penta D2 engine because of its:-
- Smooth running with low vibration levels.
- High torque at low rpm – plenty of power and quick response.
- Rigid engine block and one-piece cylinder head designed to give excellent reliability
- High-capacity charging as standard.
- Freshwater cooling – maintains a consistent and optimal working temperature under all conditions.
- Long service life – it’s easy to maintain and has top performance for the long term.
The vessel was due to take part in the TWOSTAR double handed race from Plymouth to Newport, Rhode Island, in May 2021. Sadly this was cancelled due to Covid. However the unofficial Shorthanded Trans-Atlantic race, affectionately named ‘Charlotte’s No Star’ was born in honour of the Skipper’s late mother. This race followed the same route as the original TWOSTAR race. Leaving Plymouth on the 9th May 2021, AJ Wanderlust arrived safely in Newport after 31 days, 4 hours and 52 minutes. Later in the summer AJ took part in the 2021 Fastnet Race from Cowes, Isle of Wight, finishing in Cherbourg, France.
Owner / Skipper, Charlene Howard said:
“The repowering of AJ Wanderlust after her engine fire was a very unexpected and time urgent job due to her imminent racing commitments. The Mylor team was efficient in identifying an appropriate and timely available engine. The installation was completed to a high standard, including required customisations for increased hose diameters, engine mount configurations, etc. The Volvo engine has met/exceeded expectations in terms of performance and battery charging, and overall supporting AJ Wanderlust’s aggressive sailing schedule.”
AJ Wanderlust is now quietly berthed for the winter while the owner plans the next exciting calendar of racing for the coming year – we look forward to hearing of her plans.
CALL FOR FREE ADVICE ON ENGINE REPLACEMENT OR SERVICING: 01326 372 121.