Murray Yacht Sales | Engine Model Review
Date: August 28, 2026
Engine Review: Westerbeke 82B Four Marine Diesel Engine
Engineered specifically as a power solution for auxiliary sailboats in the 50-foot class, the Westerbeke 82B Four is a naturally aspirated, 4-cylinder, 4-stroke marine diesel delivering smooth low-end horsepower and high reliability. Its low-profile design, narrow width, and lightweight cast-iron block make it an outstanding choice for tight engine compartments and sailboat repower projects.
Engine Specifications
| Parameter | Specification |
| Engine Type | 4-Cylinder, 4-Cycle, Vertical In-Line |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Rated Output | 82 hp @ 3,600 RPM |
| Peak Torque | 147 lb-ft @ 2,200 RPM |
| Displacement | 182 cu. in. (2.98 Liters) |
| Bore & Stroke | 3.74 in x 4.13 in (95 mm x 105 mm) |
| Compression Ratio | 21:1 |
| Dry Weight | 678 lbs (307.5 kg) |
| Dimensions (L x W x H) | 38.8 in x 25.5 in x 27.3 in |
| Fuel System | Self-bleeding with ZEXEL / Diesel Kiki VE distributor pump |
| Cooling System | Fresh water-cooled with oversized heat exchanger |
| Average Fuel Burn | ~1.6 US GPH @ 2,500 RPM |
| Standard Transmission | ZF/Hurth HBW 250 (1.9:1 or 2.7:1 reduction) |
Key Features & Advantages
Naturally Aspirated Simplicity: Delivers extra low-end torque without turbocharger complexity while tolerating exhaust back-pressure, allowing a compact 2-inch exhaust hose.
Self-Bleeding Fuel Circuit: Eliminates manual air purging hassles during filter replacements or accidental fuel exhaustion.
One-Side Servicing: Positions daily maintenance check points—oil fill, dipstick, filters, and seawater pump—conveniently on one side of the engine.
Heavy-Duty Cooling & Isolation: Equipped with an oversized heat exchanger, integrated block oil cooler, transmission oil cooler, and captive fail-safe vibration mounts.
High-Output Charging & Accessories: Offers optional battery-charging alternators up to 190 Amps with dual-belt drives, as well as factory provisions for a top-mounted rotary refrigeration compressor.
Model & Serial Nomenclature Decoding
Understanding marine engine designations ensures accurate part sourcing and comparison:
Westerbeke 82B Four:
- “82” represents the peak rated horsepower (82 hp)
- “B” designates the model series
- “Four” indicates the 4-cylinder layout
Westerbeke Serial Number Decoding: Found stamped on the manifold nameplate.
- The 1st character represents the decade (A=1960s, B=1970s, C=1980s, D=1990s)
- The 2nd character indicates the specific year within that decade
- The 4th and 5th digits represent the month of manufacture
Common Maintenance Parts Guide
| Maintenance Item | Westerbeke Part # | Notes & Application |
| Lube Oil Filter | #032874 | Spin-on full flow element |
| On-Engine Secondary Fuel Filter | #024363 | Spin-on secondary fuel filter |
| Fuel Lift Pump Inlet Filter | #030548 | In-line filter element at fuel pump |
| Primary Fuel Filter Element | #032974 | Racor 500 Series primary separator element |
| Raw Water Pump Impeller Kit | #011907 | Neoprene impeller with cover gasket |
| Raw Water Pump Repair Kit | #033329 | Includes impeller, seals, bearings, and cam |
| Heat Exchanger Zinc Anode | #011885 | Pencil zinc (inspect monthly) |
| Thermostat & Gasket | #024690 / #033373 | 170°–190°F operating range |
| Glow Plug | #024353 | 12V sheathed cold-starting aid |
| Alternator Drive Belt (50A) | #039181 | Standard 12V charging belt |
| Raw Water Pump Belt | #013810 | Dedicated raw water pump drive belt |
| Basic Spare Parts Kit A | #039324 | Cruising spares (filters, zincs, belt, impeller) |
| Extended Cruising Kit B | #039325 | Offshore kit (adds injector, overhaul gaskets, glow plug) |
ordering, or further details regarding the Yanmar YM-Series, contact the experts at Murray Yacht Sales.
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