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VETUS M2.18 – Marine Diesel Engine 16 HP
VETUS M2.18 – 16 HP utilizes a refined 2-cylinder marine diesel architecture featuring a 16 HP output and a high-output 75-amp alternator as standard. Engineered for minimal vibration, this Mitsubishi-based engine incorporates a specialized water-cooled exhaust manifold and an easy-access maintenance layout, ensuring reliable auxiliary power for mid-sized sailing yachts and harbor tenders.
- Precision Operational Data: 16 HP at 3600 RPM.
- Internal Engine Configuration Type: 2-Cylinder Inline 635cc.
- Advanced Fuel Delivery System: Mechanical Indirect Injection (IDI).
- Recommended Vessel Application Use: Ideal for 25–30 foot sailboats and utility boats.
- Factory Protection Service Plan: VETUS 5-year limited engine warranty.
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Description
VETUS M2.18 16 HP – Compact Twin-Cylinder Marine Diesel
Minimizing weight without sacrificing charging capacity is the primary engineering achievement of the VETUS M2.18. Delivering 16 HP at 3600 RPM, this 2-cylinder engine is built on a reliable Mitsubishi block and features VETUS’s signature water-cooled aluminum top cover to reduce engine room temperatures and noise. For American owners of pocket cruisers and day-sailers, the M2.18 provides a refined auxiliary power source that excels in fuel economy while offering a high-output 75A alternator—rare in this power class—to keep USA house battery banks fully charged for navigation and LED lighting.
Meeting strict EPA Tier 3 emission standards, the M2.18 is designed for easy maintenance in the tight engine bays of 20-25 foot American sailboats. The freshwater cooling system and saltwater-resistant heat exchanger provide a critical defense against internal corrosion in the high-salinity waters of the Atlantic and Pacific coasts. Its lightweight construction (only 216 lbs) ensures minimal impact on vessel trim, providing USA sailors with a dependable, smooth-running partner for harbor maneuvers and coastal transits.
Core Technical Specifications
- Maximum Output: 15.8 HP at 3600 RPM.
- Displacement: 38.8 cubic inches (0.635 Liters).
- Configuration: 2-cylinder in-line, 4-stroke diesel.
- Aspiration: Natural aspiration for peak reliability.
- Dry Weight: Approximately 216 lbs (engine only).
- Electrical: 12V / 75A high-output alternator.
- Compliance: EPA Tier 3 and RCD2 certified.
- Bore and Stroke: 3.00 x 2.76 inches.
VETUS M2.18 Full Specs
| Engine type | 2-Cylinder In-line (Mitsubishi Base) |
| Displacement | 0.64L (635 cc) |
| Bore x stroke | 76 x 70 mm |
| Horsepower | 16 hp (11.8 kW) |
| Rated rpm | 3600 rpm |
| Aspiration | Naturally Aspirated |
| Compression ratio | 23.0:1 |
| Fuel system | Indirect Injection |
| Recommended fuel | Diesel (EN 590) |
| Ignition/Firing Order | Compression / 1-2 |
| Alternator | 12V, 75 Amp |
| Gear ratio/Drive | 2:1 / 2.4:1 / 3:1 |
| Transmission | Technodrive TMC40 |
| Dry weight | 98 kg (216 lbs) |
| Flywheel housing | SAE 5 (modified) |
| Steering | Mechanical / Hydraulic compatible |
| Coolant capacity | 2.2L |
| Exhaust system | Water-injected wet exhaust (40 mm) |
| Cooling system | Indirect cooling (Heat exchanger) |
| Lubrication | Forced lubrication |
| Oil capacity | 3.1L |
| Emissions rating | EU RCD II / BSO II |
VETUS M2.18 Service & Performance Guide
What is the fuel consumption of the VETUS M2.18?
The M2.18 consumes approximately 0.9 gallons per hour at its maximum 3,600 RPM. This 0.6-liter two-cylinder engine is based on a Mitsubishi industrial block, offering high reliability for small sailboats. For the best efficiency, a 2,600 RPM cruise provides smooth propulsion and minimal vibration, making it ideal for day sailers and pocket cruisers.
What oil grade is required for the VETUS M2.18?
This engine requires 3.2 quarts of SAE 15W-40 oil meeting API Service Class CF, CF-4, or CI-4. Given the two-cylinder configuration, clean oil is critical to minimize wear on the crankshaft and overhead valves. Replace the oil and the spin-on filter every 100 hours or once per season to maintain peak performance.
How does the VETUS M2.18 cooling system operate?
It utilizes a freshwater cooling circuit with a seawater heat exchanger featuring a high-grade aluminum top cover for superior heat dissipation. This protects the internal cast-iron block from salt corrosion. Regularly inspect the sacrificial zinc anodes and the seawater pump impeller to ensure the system remains scale-free.
What are the electrical system specifications for this engine?
Standard M2.18 units feature a 12V-75A alternator, providing excellent charging capacity for small vessel starting and house batteries. This high output is specifically designed to handle electronics even when the engine is at low RPM. Ensure all connections are clean and tight to prevent voltage drops during the glow plug cycle.
What are the physical dimensions and weight of the M2.18?
The dry weight is 216 lbs, measuring 21.3 inches long and 20.3 inches high. Its ultra-compact footprint is perfect for narrow engine beds found in 20-25 foot yachts. Allow for at least 3 inches of side clearance for easy access to the oil dipstick and manual fuel priming pump.
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