Volvo Penta D4-180i-B Marine Engine: Reliable Propulsion for Demanding Waters The Volvo Penta D4-180i-B is a robust, in-line 4-cylinder diesel marine engine engineered for dependable propulsion in recreational and commercial vessels. Introduced as part of Volvo Penta’s acclaimed D4 series, this 3.7-liter turbocharged powerplant delivers seamless performance across a wide range of marine applications, blending advanced technology with proven durability. Key technical specifications underscore its engineering excellence: producing 180 horsepower (132 kW) at the crankshaft, the D4-180i-B features common-rail fuel injection, double overhead camshafts, and a proprietary “Back Extract” system for optimized thermal management. Manufactured between 2005 and 2008, it operates on diesel fuel with direct injection for precise combustion, while electronic engine management ensures real-time diagnostics, emissions control, and fuel efficiency. Complementing these are a closed-loop charged-water cooling system, automatic speed-adjusted dynamic balancing to suppress vibrations, and a modular design that simplifies maintenance through standardized components. Tailored for marine environments, the D4-180i-B excels with corrosion-resistant materials that withstand saltwater exposure and sealed components for reliability in harsh conditions. Its diesel architecture promotes longevity, with extended service intervals and low maintenance costs, while meeting stringent emissions standards for eco-conscious operations. The Back Extract technology innovatively recaptures waste heat from the transmission, enhancing overall efficiency, reducing operating temperatures, and mitigating cold-start stresses to extend component life. Performance-wise, this engine strikes an ideal balance of power and economy, offering smooth torque delivery for mid-sized hulls without excessive fuel consumption. Noise and vibration are minimized, ensuring passenger comfort and preserving vessel structural integrity during extended voyages. Ideal for offshore motor yachts, sportfishing boats, and industrial work vessels from the mid-2000s era, the D4-180i-B embodies Volvo Penta’s legacy of quality, retaining strong resale value through its serviceable ecosystem and unwavering dependability on the water. (Word count: 278)
This Hallberg-Rassy 54, hull number 16, is an outstanding example of the model and presents in a condition and specification level that exceeds current standard yard specification.
“Waterman” has been carefully maintained by an experienced private owner and has benefited from two extensive refit programs carried out in Sweden by highly respected specialist yards closely associated with Hallberg-Rassy. These refits focused on the renewal and modernization of all critical onboard systems, combining classic Hallberg-Rassy craftsmanship with contemporary technology and equipment.
The yacht is fully documented, professionally upgraded, and prepared for immediate blue-water cruising.
GENERAL INFORMATION
• Builder: Hallberg-Rassy Varvs AB, Sweden
• Model: Hallberg-Rassy 54
• Hull number: 16
• Year: 2008
• Designer: German Frers
• Type: Sailing yacht / Deck saloon
• CE category: A
• VAT: Paid
• Registration: Isle of Man
• Location: Blanes, Spain
All invoices, refit documentation, and service records are available.
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DIMENSIONS & CONSTRUCTION
• LOA: 16.74 m
• LWL: 14.30 m
• Beam: 4.70 m
• Draft: 2.30 m
• Air draft: 24.85 m
• Headroom: 2.15 m
• Displacement: 27.5 t
• Ballast: 9.75 t (lead)
• Hull material: GRP, white, round-bilged
• Keel: Fin keel
• Deck & superstructure: GRP with teak finish
• Rubbing strake: Stainless steel
• Antifouling: 2025
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REFIT HISTORY
Refit ProgramThe yacht has undergone two major refits, each with an investment of approximately €100,000,
carried out in Sweden by specialist yards with long-standing Hallberg-Rassy experience.
First Refit
Bröderna Martinsson Varv (official Hallberg-Rassy rigging supplier)
• Renewal of key technical systems
• Replacement and upgrading of rigging-related components
• All works professionally executed and fully documented
Second Refit
Orust Yacht Service (former Najad shipyard)
• Modernization of all safety-critical and operational systems
• Installation of new-generation navigation and monitoring equipment
• Preventive replacement of components to ensure long-term reliability
Total refit investment: approx. €200,000
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NAVIGATION & ELECTRONICS
• Complete Raymarine navigation suite, latest generation
• Raymarine Quantum 2 Doppler radar
• New-generation AIS transponder
• Integrated collision-avoidance and situational-awareness systems
• New chartplotters at:
• Cockpit
• Helm pedestal
• Navigation station
• New autopilot system
• Additional Raymarine i70 display in the owner’s cabin
• All deck hatches renewed
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RIGGING & SAILS
• Rig type: Sloop
• Mast: Seldén aluminium, triple spreaders
• Custom steering wheel pedestal (Hallberg-Rassy 57 type)
• Standing rigging renewed
• Elvström sail inventory, including:
• New mainsail
• New genoa
• Additional sail inventories (total of three)
• Elvström gennaker
• Trysail
• In-mast furling system
• Hydraulic backstay and boomvang (Holmatro)
• Electric Lewmar winches (48ST & 68ST)
• Carbon spinnaker pole
• New Varifold folding propeller + spare
• Sea anchor (drogue)
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MACHINERY & SYSTEMS
• Engine: Volvo Penta D4-180i-B diesel
• Power: 180 hp / 132.3 kW
• New turbocharger installed• Max speed: approx. 9 kn
• Cruising speed: approx. 7 kn
• Consumption: approx. 6 L/hr
• Range: approx. 1200 nm
• Engine hours: 1399 (as of 01-04-2015; current hours available on request)
• Bow thruster: Electric, 15 hp (Side-Power)
• Generator: Mastervolt Whisper, 8 kW (1841 hours)
• Watermaker: ENWA, serviced and preserved
• Two Climma air-conditioning units
• Refrigeration systems renewed, water-cooled
• New cutlass bearing (2022)
• New rudder stock bearing (2021)
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ELECTRICAL
• Batteries: 6 × 420 Ah (AGM)
• Mastervolt battery monitor
• 140 Ah battery charger
• 2500 W inverter
• Shore power with cable
• Insulation transformer
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TANKS
• Fuel: 2 × 450 L (stainless steel)
• Fresh water: 600 L + 550 L (stainless steel)
• Black water: 2 × 80 L, deck extraction
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ACCOMMODATION & INTERIOR
• Cabins: 3
• Berths: 7
• Interior: Teak
• Floor: Teak & holly
• Deck saloon: Yes
Heating & Climate
• Diesel hot-air heating (2 × Webasto Airtop 3500)
• Reverse-cycle air-conditioning
Galley
• Corian countertops
• 2 × stainless steel sinks
• Force 10 electric cooker & oven
• LG microwave
• 2 × Isotherm fridge/freezers
• Isotherm freezer
• 80 L hot-water boiler (220 V + engine)
Cabins & Bathrooms
• Owner’s cabin with twin berths (2.10 m), en suite
• Guest cabin with double berth (2.10 m), en suite
• Guest cabin with V-berth (2.00 m), shared facilities
• Electric toilets throughout
• Washing machine and ironing facilities
Interior Updates
• Upholstery renewed by Peterson, official Hallberg-Rassy supplier (2021)
• New carpets throughout
• New elk-leather steering wheel cover
• Electrically retractable Smart TV
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DECK & EXTERIOR
• Hardtop
• Additional bimini (2021)
• Hydraulic bathing platform and gangway
• Delta anchor (32 kg) with 70 m chain
• Dinghy with outboard
• New Tohatsu 6 hp outboard engine
• Full hull polish and recent antifouling
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SAFETY & EQUIPMENT
• Life raft (6 persons)
• Lifejackets and safety harnesses
• EPIRB
• Fire extinguishers
• TV and onboard entertainment equipment
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SUMMARY
This Hallberg-Rassy 54 represents an exceptional opportunity to acquire a proven blue-water cruising yacht with extensive professional refits and a specification level exceeding contemporary factory standards. A well-documented, carefully upgraded example, ready for immediate cruising without the delays or compromises associated with a new build.
If you are interested, I can share a Google Drive link with additional photos and and details.
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