universal

I'm looking to install a bus heater into my 1974 E32-200. It has a Universal M3-20B inside. Has anybody done this before? I'm looking for the correct location to port the engine coolant to the heater. The coolant pump has no extra ports, other than a hose for the coolant bypass circuit. The...

Seems like this is something that someone has asked before. Let me know if that is the case. I would like to install a high temp alarm on my 1985 Universal M-18. The only one I have found is on Catalina Direct. While fine boats, mine is a 1985 Ericson 30+. I spoke to the sells department at...

Fierce Grace is a 1972 E35, I am trying to figure out that year the engine is. It was re powered with a Universal, does anyone know how the serial number breaks down to find the year of the engine? Thanks.

Or on any engine for that matter? Previous owner of an E34 I'm looking at replaced the engine hour gauge on the 23hp Universal, current owner/broker put their heads together to see what it added up to. Apparently comes to around 1500hrs. But it doesn't sound like an extremely accurate story...

Hi out there, My oil dipstick broke off about six inches from the end (which end now sits in my oil pan). My engine is the 32HP Universal diesel that came with the Ericson 38 in 1984. Anyone know where I can get a replacement dipstick and if there is any danger in leaving the broken end in the...

Because the archives are currently not available, here are Tom Metzger's notes on upgrades and recommended changes to Universal diesel wiring: UNIVERSAL DIESEL WIRING MODIFICATIONS During discussions on the Sailnet Ericson e-mail list about wiring problems with Universal diesel engines...

I finally got around to the loose ends of figuring out the Kubota cross-reference of parts for the Universal 5432 & M40 engines that some of us have. I went through the ringer trying to get parts for a reasonable price when I replaced my 5432. Kubota "the engine" maker and Kubota "the tractor"...

I have just pulled the FWC diesel from my E29. I want to sell the boat but it seems that sailboats are worth more their parts than as as a whole. This diesel was installed new in 2003 and current hours are unknown but must be low as little use was incurred before I bought the boat. This an...

I didn't like the idiot light set-up on the Universal 5416 when I became the new owner of a 30+ so I took out the sender and fitted in a proper adapter and oil pressure transmitter. To my shock, after fitting up the transmitter, the oil pressure reads about 1 lb or at most 2 lbs, even at high...

Among my winter projects (I guess it's now spring projects), I found another job when I tried to flip my cockpit 'oil' switch. It broke off. It's next to my key ignition in the lower right corner of my engine control panel for our Universal Model 12 / 1987 Ericson 26 with wheel steering. (By...

Hey guys. I'm new to Ericsons and the forum. Since there is such great stuff on here I thought I would ask you guys a question. I've been searching for an answer on here and just haven't been able to find one. Here's the problem: Went to replace the impeller on my M-12 (1988 Ericson...

Just spent some time at my local Kubota parts dealer. Learned the Universal 5432 is based on the Kubota V5101 also used in the Kubota L345 Tractor. Most engine components are available direct from Kubota parts dealer, at a much reduced cost than many marine supply alternatives. <?xml:namespace...

First off, this forum is great! Since purchasing a 1987 E-28 in August, I've been following the sound advice and wisdom from the great folks at this site for my own projects. Thank you so much!! I'm a little mystified with the belt on my Universal M12 diesel. When purchasing the boat, we were...

I am looking at a 30+ and wonder if the 2 cylinder engine offers enough power for long cruises. Also, what is the maximum speed you typically run with the motor? Also, there was about 1" on water in the bilge that was quickly evacutated with the pump - should that amount of water be alarming...

Does anyone have a cross number for a Universal 25xp v-belt. Universal number is 300817(i think). Looks like it might be an a-40 belt. Would like to pickup locally instead of ordering. Thanks

Hello All, I replaced the engine in my E38 with a used 5432 this winter and although the "new" engine runs great there is one small problem. It starts instantly when cold, or even hot if I just shutdown and restart in a few minutes. If I go for a 2-4 hour sail and then try to start the engine...

got a 11 HP model 15(sea cooled). Ran with water valve closed. ate up impeller. Replaced and removed the thermostat. hooked up fresh water after pump, Seems to cool OK, this way. Removed exaust manifold.Need to replace.(new one $500) Questions: 1. How big a stream should come out from the pump...

My M-40 has started to spurt a small amount of oil out the breaker tube:confused:. It has never done this in the past, changed the oil this spring it is at the proper level. Engine seems to run fine but now i need clean up a small (about the size of a quarter) puddle on the deck behind the...

I learned a bit about Universal 5432 engines during my recent re-power project and figured I'd write down what I know so maybe someone else won't have to chase their tail like I did..... Universal 5432 are based on a Kubota engine, specifically the V1501 model. Actually, Universal just bolted...

Does anyone know the specs for the electric fuel lift pump option for the Universal 18? I would like to have a spare pump (the current looks original) on hand and am not sure if any "generic" pump would work or if there are specific pressure/flow requirements.

My temperature gauge is busted, was busted all last summer. Promised myself this would be resolved before I go back in the water. Does anyone have a link to a good article on the trouble shooting steps to be find the problem? I have never looked at this part of the diesel system and have no idea...

Can anyone give me input on the useful life, in operating hours, of the diesel engines on '88 Ericson 38 sailboats, assuming reasonable maintenance: oil changes, etc.? I have about 5,000 hours on the engine [mostly light duty motoring in and out of the marina] and need to replace the...

Hello All, Down at the boat today checking on her, etc. and noticed something I thought I saw once before. On a Universal 5432 engine the thermostat housing is bolted to the front of the cylinder head. When the head is installed the mounting boss on the engine block for the coolant pump is...

The M18 in my 30+ runs at less than 160 on the temp gauge. I have installed a new thermostat and new temp sender that I purchased from Featherman before he closed his business, but it still runs the same temp. Any ideas why it does this? I thought the operating temp was supposed to be 180. Does...

Hello, I noticed water dripping from the bottom of my raw water pump on my Ericson 28+ Universal model 5411 diesel. I bought new gaskets and a pair of the round metal replacement seals to see if that would solve the leaking. I would like to know if there is any thing special I...

I just bought my E28 this July and have a charging question. WHen I first start the engine, the ammeter would only show a slight charge. Not putting too much faith in the meter, I took my analog multimeter and tested the batteries with and without the enging rumming and there seeed to be no...

The following is FYI for 5432 owners. The fresh water pump (that's the one that circulates the engine coolant not the "raw water pump") began to leak on my 1981 E38. I was concerned it might be the bearings being near failure so wanted to replace it. The cost of a Universal replacement from...

Any suggestions on where to gat parts for Universal on Long Isalnd? Or diesel parts and service in general?

In my continuing search for Universal to Kubota crossover charts, a few gems appear now and then. Note to Moderator; please archive this for future reference This has been published on the Catalina 30 website but this version is from Hess Marine? and it varies slightly from the version on the...

Hello All, If you have a Universal 5432/M40 I would like to know the sequence/path of the fuel to the engine. I know the late model M40 has an electric lift pump while the 5432 "should" not. That said, I know "some" M40's have a mechanical pump on the engine, just like my 5432. The fuel...

Hello group, I have a 1987 E-35 MK-3 with a Universal model 25XP engine. While running the engine yesterday, the oil pressure gauge was at 30, but after dropping to idel about one hour into our journey, the oil pressure alarm suddenly came on, and the gauge read 10. We boosted the throttle...

Does anyone know for sure which heat exchanger from Seakamp can be used to replace the one on my Universal M25-XP? The interweb provide conflicting advise. Seakamp wants a picture of it. Of course it's 5 hour round trip to where my 1989 Ericson 35' Mark 3 lives so will not have a photo before...

Hey I just saw a rebuilt A4 on E-bay--with a buy it now price of $2500 and lots of photos. If someone is in the market for one it might be a deal as I think a rebuilt one at Moyer Marine is in the $4 grand range. Here is the link...

Looking for a convenient fix for a coolant recovery tube that has separated itself from the filler neck of the heat exchanger. The fitting is factory crimped to the neck but has worked itself loose and there is no way I can crimp it back tight enough not to leak when the pressure builds...

Hi folks, does anyone know the part# for the screw on the injector pump bleeding plug on M-25? I opened up the engine compartment to find out that the screw cap somehow (no clue, honestly) broke off. I can open and close it using pliers, but it's a hassle. I've looked all over the...

Looking to replace fresh water & Raw water pumps on my M25-XP. KKMI boatyard told me when I had it in for haul out that they would either have to take the front of engine apart or pull the head to replace fresh water pump. They suggested pulling & R&R head which will cost big $. Anyone have...

I just purchased an E-35 MK III which has the Universal model 25 diesel. I'm planning to sail her from the west coast of Florida to her new home on the east coast of Florida, so I want to get an idea of what kind of fuel consumption to expect when motoring. I know there are many variables to...

Hello all. We have a M25 Universal Diesel with 2600 hours on it which I suspect is the original engine from 1986. It starts and runs well. Doesn't leak, overheat or misbehave in any way and I keep up with oil changes and filters. I'm wondering just how much life is a reasonable expectation for...

Hello All & Greetings from the Great White North! Well here is a twist! Contrary to the usual complaints of a 5432 running too hot, the latest oil analysis I had done back in Sept. indicated that we had an increased soot level & that the engine could be "AFFECTED BY A/F RATIO, INTAKE...

Help ... I've always thought the "on-engine" spin on diesel fuel filter Universal #298854 was a 2 micron unit. However when crossing over to NAPA #3390 or Wix #33390, both indicate 10 microns. Does any one know what the actual micron size is for the Universal #298854? Or what micron size...

I have a 1986 E28 with the Universal M12 Diesel. The alternator belt is a little loose, yet the bracket that holds the alternator is maxed out. The belt is the correct size, and the previous owner says it was always like this. He was concerned, but never had a problem. Is there any reason...

Over the weekend, my v-belt broke. Further inspection indicated that what might be an "auxiliary water pump" seized, thereby stopping the rotation of one of the 3 pulleys around which the v-belt travels and causing the friction that caused the belt to break. I'm not even 100% certain it is a...

Experienced a fuel problem this past weekend --- engine stalled shortly after powering off the mooring. Looking at the primary filter (RACOR glass bowl type) it appeared air was entering the system - I traced back to the fuel tank where I found the dip tube had cracked right at the fitting...

I have a Universal M 25 XP engine. I started the boat this weekend to find that the alarm buzzer for the oil pressure is not working. Changed out the buzzer but still nothing, so I'm suspecting the oil pressure sending unit. Looked around but couldn't find it. I suspect it's hidden...

1988 engine with 3000 original hours, running condition, low compression on #3 and #4 cylinders. $500. Many newer or recently overhauled components, incl. starter, Balmar hi-output double-lead alternator, 3" dia. heat exchanger, Sherwood hi-output raw water pump, motor mounts. Injectors recently...

<?xml:namespace prefix = o ns = "urn:schemas-microsoft-com:office:office" /><o:p></o:p> Ah yes, the joyful innocence of our 1<SUP>st</SUP> sailboat & the excitement of Nakesa’s maiden voyage (last August) seems a distant memory; the harsh reality of the 20 year old mysterious, mechanized monster...

Hauling my Universal - pics After having some overheating issues, a little smoke from the exhaust, seemingly low power, and judging the overall visual condition of the motor I have made the decision to pull and completely rebuild my Universal 5416. I will be hauling it out this weekend. My...

Thanks for putting up with me... one more thing. While I am at it does anyone have a maintenance or Mechanical manual on the M25XP giving specs and or instructions? Is there one to down load somewhere? Thanks, Ralph

Howdy folks, Finely got the paper work on boat (E-34-2 1988) here in Nicaragua just in time for the SW storms & swells and storms. Now that things have lightened up a bit it was time to start the engine and have a go at the coast. The start up went bad as the starter battery was 5 years old...

Looking at the exhaust on my 5432 last weekend it occurred to me that it could be improved. The exhaust exits the riser to a hose that is tapered and clamps to a 90* bronze plumbing fitting then to the waterlift muffler. The 90* fitting is a standard marine plumbing fitting with screw in hose...

Continuing adventures of Nakesa - we have a small oil leak: the relief hose from the crankcase is dripping oil at about 1 drip per second / engine temp is > 185 degrees when we are running over 2,000 rpm's; under 2,000, the temp is 180 & oil is less than 1 drip per minute. Oil level on the...

I was browsing the local marine consignment today and there was a nice, clean Universal M40, complete with transmission, 4 point mount, etc. that just came in. 2500hrs, asking $1800.00 Seemed like a decent price to me for a working plug-n-play option. Check the website...

The owner's manual for this motor states that you may cause "serious damage" to the exhaust valve if you stop yor motor with the compression release. Does anyone know exactly what it is supposed to do to the engine? My motor was stopped this way for 5 times or so, and I want to know what to...

I have a 1987 E32-3. The engine has a circular air intake on the top of the engine. I opened the top of this anticipating to see an air filter of some kind. There was none. I asked around the dock and other owners said an actual filter wasn't really necesary. Is an air filter needed for...

Hello All, A while back someone here was asking questions about air filters on Universal engines. At the time I figured that whatever Universal thought appropriate to install on my 5432 was fine. Upon inspection, I have reconsidered that position. The factory air intake "horn" is a funny...

I disassembled the raw water pump today to replace the impeller. The part number, IIRC, Westerbeke 33100 is not the correct impeller. Both the manual and the other spare on the boat were also 33100 so I am confused as to what pump I have and why the PO would have the incorrect part and part...

I need to replace the water pump on my Universal 5432. I believe that the corresponding Kubota tractor engine number is V-1501. Does anyone know if there is a difference between tractor water pumps and marine ones? (this is the fresh water pump). -Alex

Hi All - Well, two weekends after beginning the replacement of my Raritan Water heater, I finally have the new heater in the lazarette and ready to install. What an interesting exercise that was - they must have put the water heater in before they built the boat, as it was much larger than...

This was given to me but I already have one.. Covers models: M12,15,18,20,25,25XP,35,40,and 50 light greasy fingerprints on the cover but otherwise great condition. $10 includes postage. Please reply directly to jsmeier@yahoo.com

I would like to put new rings etc. in my engine. I have it out to repair or replace the tranny which gave up on the forward gear.. looks like my winter is going to be fun..fun..fun. Would appreciate a shop manual for these.

Cruising along at 1800rpm/6.5 kts in open ocean (10mi from shore) my normally very steady running engine starts to "hiccup". A small drop in RPM and then it comes back to where it was. 20 mins later, the same thing but slower to recover. Then again 10 mins later. And eventually it dies. Pop...

Not knowing much about diesel engines when I bought my boat earlier this year, and as is probably typical of many of us sailors, I focused more on the condition of the hull, rigging, woodwork, instrumentation and sails than I did on the diesel motor, other than to note that it started easily...

Hello All, I never motor very far, maybe a half hour or so at a time so I never really work the Universal 5432 in my E38 very hard or long. Well, I had to motor for about 1.5hrs on Monday to get where I was going and the engine ran pretty hot. Normally I don't run much above 2200rpm as I don't...

My next job is going to be a total clean up and rewiring, as well as re-routing new hoses in the engine compartment of our E34. I thought I would touch up all the spots on the engine where the paint came off. I Have not been able to find bronze engine paint anywhere. Anyone have any ideas???

Maybe some new universal engine pdf's to include in the specs and documents section? http://www.westerbeke.com/originals/pdfs/universal_5424.pdf There are more PDF's at the site, this is just a link to the one I have.

I am in the process of buying a 1984 E35-III. When running the diesel a very fast drip developed under the shaft of the raw water pump. Is this something that is easily/cheaply fixed or are we talking about a new water pump for big bucks? Thanks Tim R.

:confused: I noticed the temperature gauge in our Universal M25 was reading kind of high at about 195 deg F but the engine did not feel that hot. My optical temp guage and a thermocouple confirmed the actual thermostat housing was 171 deg F. Not liking things that make me worry I decided to fix...

My '74 E 35-II had the A-4 replaced with a rebuilt 3 Cyl Universal Diesel in 99. It runs well. The PO has no information about the engine and I am not familiar enough to recognize the model but I want to ID it so I can get a manual, etc. The installation required raising the engine box cover...

Hi All, I'm hoping someone will have a solution for me. I have a Universal M35A 30hp 4 cylinder on my E35/3. I have an annoying coolant leak which I can't find. I've removed the heat exchanger, cleaned it, put new gaskets on it - no leak there. I've checked all hose clamps on the fresh...

FWIW, I recently purchased and installed a new raw water pump from Moyer Marine Universal 5432 diesel. Moyer sells a direct replacement water pump for the Oberdorfer 202 ?M series pumps. The casting for this pump is nearly identical to the 202 7M so the bolt holes line up properly. By...

Hello I have a 1982 36(RH) that I'm repowering with a yanmar (1994 3GM30F) engine. I hope to go cruising someday and want an engine with a more availible parts supply. So my current 5424 (24hp) with hurth trans and control panel is for sale. I do not know how many hours are on it. It...

Ted, I changed the Oberdorfer pump for a Sherwood. Original one needed rebuilding and the Sherwood has higher capacity for better cooling. Mechanic friend told me the Oberdorfer is a better quality pump (bronze vs. cast iron) Also I think there is an optional taller cam that will make the...

Hello Folks, I am looking for a source for a Universal M25 Service Manual. I have the Owners Manual but it is a little sparce on details. I did a search on this site but nothing obvious popped up. Would prefere somewhere to download a file but any suggestions will be appreciated. Thanks -...

Hello, I have 1986 38' 200 with the 5432 Diesel above. I've broken the throttle bolt going through the speed plate, which is at the top of the govenor (I believe that's what it's called). I've ordered and received the new bolt and related parts for the repair. My question is has anyone...

I have a 1983 E28+ equipped with a Universal M-15 diesel that insists on running hotter than spec (which is 150 degrees). The engine is set up with a closed coolant system rather than use raw seawater for direct cooling. Would this "modification" cause the engine to run hotter (say 175...

Hi All, I have a question about my oil level on the dipstick of my M35A diesel. After changing the oil with one of those suction pumps, I refilled the engine & checked the dipstick. I know you can't always get all of the oil out with these suction devices so it's hard to estimate how much...

Hi All, We were out yesterday sailing & on the way home I glanced at the engine panel to check RPM, temp, oil pressure and charging. I did a double take because at first I noticed the tach reading only 5000 rpm, then I noticed all of the other gauges were dead. Silly me - I thought well...

Used diesel, runs well. We bought it to replace a dead Atomic 4, but found it doesn't fit our boat. New alternator, improved alternator bracket, new fuel pump, other upgrades. Asking $3500. Email rschaffner@gmail.com for more information.

My new to me 85 E38 was overheating @2000 rpm. Here is what I found. The boat sat for about a year not being run,so the saltwater in the heat exchanger caked approx. half of it off. The raw water fitting where it dumps into the exhaust riser was closed down to about 1/4 inch hole. There was a...

The 2 blade factory fixed prop just is not pushing my boat through strong chop and current, where it cavitates and the boat looses steerage due to no forward speed over rudder. I looked into a Maxprop 3 blade feathering and the shop recommended 15" diameter, 9'' pitch, 1'' shaft. The cost to buy...

My Universal M-40 came with an air box, but no filter other than a very coarse screen. I have been unable to locate a filter element to fit the air box, and am now considering replacing the air box with a K&N or something similar, but I'm not sure of the required CFM. Any suggestions would be...

First, let me say I am stupid when it comes to engines. I have a very slow leak at the 1 1/8" (1 1/4"??) diameter engine fresh water drain plug. It has a smaller plug within it, but does not seem to be leaking there. If I back it out a small amount and put polisulfide caulk on the threads and...

I've been working hard to refurb my 28+ and have learned a lot about the engine. All of you who have this little engine should know the following: The Universal 2 cylinder diesel Model 5411 is almost identical to the Model 15 which was a designation assigned in the 1983+ timeframe. The...

I have a 1983 E28+ with a fresh water cooled Universal 5411. Generally the engine runs fine (about 150 degrees) but when I need to run at higher (but not excessive) RPMs to push through chop or get the boat speed up to 5 knots or more it heats up rather quickly to 180 and keeps climbing. It...

I have a used A4 purchased two years ago meant to install in a derelict E27 I am renewing and refitting. The sad story: The shaft, prop, raw water plumbing, electric, complete exhaust, and fuel work to install the engine was completed and I ran it for one season. After putting the boat on...

After nay years and many suggestions ( even from the Mfg) I have finally solved my starting problems! From new batteries to new cables and upgraded wiring as well as a solenoid replacement, nothing fixed the problem of starting my MD 12 ! Finally a month ago I replaced the start and glow plug...

Universal model 5432 diesel engine for sale in terrific shape. Includes muffler, harness, panel and mounts. Engine is on pallet, but I cannot ship. Located in Bronx, New York. Call Ari on 646 521 8511 for more details or email abayme@baymecapital.com

A lot is made in the Manual regarding the raw water pump impeller replacement (including detailed instructions), but nothing is stated regarding the fresh warter pump, which is belt driven. It would seem that this pump is just as vital as the salt water coolant pump - is it bullet-proof, and...

My 1984 E-28 has an M-15 engine, (old model no 5411). My owners manual for the engine clearly shows that it is a salt water cooled engine. However, my engine definitely has a cooling circuit with an externally mounted heat exhanger. Did Westerbeke ever make a closed coolant circuit version...