NEWS

One of the less obvious but most important aspects of the IPS system and joystick control is that it can get more people involved in a boat’s operation. During the sea trials of SanJuanYachts 48 hull number 26, this became wonderfully clear to SJY’s Ron Johnson, who was onboard.“The first mate was at the helm 90% of the time and took the boat back into the dock,” he explained. For the owners, this was revelatory. For builder SanJuanYachts, it was exciting to deliver something both the captain and first mate could both enjoy at the wheel. “Now she (the first mate) can’t get enough of the helm, and I’m sure the IPS system has a lot to do with her confidence.”

OceanX is Volvo Penta’s answer to the corrosive effects of salt water! Now it has extra sensors to further protect outdrives.

The Toughest Coating

OceanX’s titanium-ceramic coating is applied using a state-of-the-art electro-deposition process. The coating greatly improves corrosion resistance – up to four times more resistant – making OceanX perfect for salt water boating. The titanium ceramic coating is highly durable, flexible and covers the entire drive for maximum protection. OceanX offers an entirely new level of protection!

Protecting What You Can’t See

In addition to the new OceanX coating, Volvo Penta added two electronic sensors to help protect internal components of the drive*. These sensors provide audible and visual** warning alerts to help boaters avoid expensive repairs:

• The Drive sensor monitors the quality and level of the drive’s critical gear lubricant.
• The U Joint Bellows sensor alerts if water intrudes in the bellows area.

In keeping with Volvo Penta’s commitment to environmental care, the OceanX drive is chromate-free.

* Water-in-Drive and Water-in-Bellows sensors are not available with diesel engines.

** Visual warnings only available with optional EVC displays.

     The Volvo Penta IPS concept is expanding this year with the addition of a further two power classes – the IPS900 and the IPS800 – with a new and more powerful drive unit and 70% larger propellers matched with Volvo Penta’s high-torque 11-liter diesel engine.

     A package that, in twin, triple and quad-engine installations, is suitable for all planing boats and motor yachts from 50 to 100 feet.

     Volvo Penta IPS is the world-leading system in the boating industry for pod installations. Since its launch in 2005, Volvo Penta has, with the help of the IPS system, successfully taken an increasingly large share of the inboard market. To date, more than 10,000 units have been delivered and installed in more than 250 boat models at boat builders all over the world.

     Deliveries of the new IPS900 and IPS800 models have already begun and they have been received very well in the marine industry. To date, they are being installed in more than 20 different boat models from 50 to 100 feet in the form of twin, triple and quad-engine installations in everything from dedicated sport fishing boats to flybridge yachts and more open express cruisers.

     The biggest challenge our service department faces isn't getting the right parts, figuring out what's wrong or even fixing the engine. Its biggest challenge in scheduling. In the busy season of April through June, our mechanics are on a flat-out sprint to get our customers ready to cast off. But in those dark days of January through March, they're just itching for more to do. Customers who can manage to schedule service for the "off season" get their boats early, and if any complications arise there is plenty of time to get it all sorted out.

     If you can, schedule now for January through March. Besides, boating is even more fun when you get out early in the season!