If you’re even thinking about repowering your boat and you haven’t looked at the Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine, you’re missing one of the most reliable, fuel-efficient, and torque-rich options in the entire inboard market. And I’m not just saying that because I sell them—I’m saying that because I’ve personally installed them, run them, and seen how they perform under real-world conditions.
As a certified Yanmar marine engine dealer and marine diesel technician with over 15 years of hands-on experience, I’ve worked with hundreds of boats, from offshore cruisers to commercial vessels. When it comes to repowers, I can confidently say the Yanmar 4JH110 consistently delivers beyond expectations. This review is based not just on technical data, but on real installations, customer results, and service follow-ups.
Meet the Yanmar 4JH110 Marine Diesel Engine
The 4JH110 is a 110 horsepower, 4-cylinder, common rail diesel engine that balances high power output with quiet, fuel-efficient performance. It’s part of Yanmar’s legendary 4JH series, but it pushes the upper limits of this range for vessels that need more muscle. Download the official Yanmar 4JH110 spec sheet (PDF)
Core Specs:
- Horsepower: 110 HP @ 3200 RPM
- Max Torque: 295 Nm @ 2500 RPM
- Fuel System: Common Rail Direct Injection
- Cooling: Water-cooled with heat exchanger
- Weight: Approx. 285 kg (dry)
This engine is especially popular for 40- to 50-foot boats, including bluewater sailboats and trawlers.
“We installed this engine on a 46-foot Jeanneau last season. The previous engine was an 85HP mechanical diesel. With the 4JH110, the owner reported a smoother ride, lower fuel consumption, and better cruising speed—even in rougher waters.” Understand EPA Tier III diesel compliance.
Key Features That Make the Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine a Standout
This engine stands out not just for what’s on paper, but for how it actually performs at sea.
Common Rail Efficiency
The common rail fuel injection system precisely controls fuel delivery for:
- Smoother operation
- Lower emissions
- Better fuel economy
It also ensures compliance with IMO Tier III emission standards, critical for vessels operating in regulated waters like the EU, US coasts, and marinas with environmental restrictions.
High Torque, Low Fuss
The 4JH110 delivers peak torque at cruising RPM, which translates to:
- Smooth acceleration
- More efficient propeller push
- Reduced engine strain under load
One of our clients in Seattle repowered a Nauticat 44 with this model. They gained over a knot of cruising speed while using less fuel at 2500 RPM. No issues after 600 hours.
Compact for a 110HP Engine
Despite the power output, the 4JH110 is surprisingly compact and fits easily into many existing engine compartments. We’ve installed it in tight fiberglass engine rooms with minimal structural changes.
Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine Performance Review: Real-World Results
Here’s how the Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine performs under real usage conditions:
- Cruising RPM (2400–2800): Delivers responsive power with low vibration
- Noise Level: Measured at 67–70 dB in well-insulated compartments
- Fuel Burn: Between 3.2–4.0 GPH depending on load and sea state
- Startup: Fast, clean starts even in cold weather, no excess smoke
These results are from both dealer sea trials and customer feedback logs we’ve documented over the past 3 years.
Why It’s a Smart Choice for Boat Repowers
We repower dozens of boats each year at our shop and through partner yards. The 4JH110 makes our short list for 3 key reasons:
Seamless Integration
- Fits most 85–120HP engine mounts with minor adjustments
- Accepts ZF30M and KM4A2 gearboxes
- Digital panel and CAN-bus ready for easy NMEA 2000 integration
Reduced Long-Term Cost of Ownership
- Cleaner burning = fewer injector and valve issues
- Routine service intervals are longer
- Less downtime, more cruising time
One customer in British Columbia logged 900 hours in 18 months post-repower and only needed standard oil and filter changes. No injector cleanings, no belt issues, no ECU faults.
Installation Considerations oF Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine
As a certified repower center, we recommend the following with this engine:
- Gearbox Match: ZF30M for mechanical setups, KM4A2 for hydraulics
- Exhaust Routing: Wet exhaust with high-loop and waterlift muffler
- Fuel Filtration: Racor dual-stage system recommended
- Panel Placement: Digital panel should be mounted above waterline, out of splash zones
We offer pre-install inspections and 3D fit templates to help verify mounting alignment.
How It Stacks Up to the Competition
vs. Yanmar 4JH80
- More torque for larger hulls
- Ideal for ocean-crossing vessels and boats with larger fuel/water loads
vs. Volvo D2-110
- Easier parts availability in North America and Asia
- Better service diagnostics through Yanmar dealers
- More consistent cold-weather starts
vs. Beta Marine 105T
- More compact design
- Quieter at idle and cruising RPM
- Longer factory-backed warranty (in many regions)
Common Questions from Our Customers
Is the Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine too powerful for sailboats?
No. It’s a top choice for sailboats between 42–52 feet, especially those doing offshore or liveaboard cruising.
Can I use my old shaft and propeller?
Depends on existing specs. We often recommend a prop check and re-pitching with the new torque curve.
What is the maintenance schedule?
- Oil + filters every 250 hours or annually
- Fuel filters every 500 hours
- Valve check every 1000 hours (minimal adjustment usually needed)
Do I need a certified installer?
Yes, for full warranty activation and proper calibration.
Pricing, Warranty, and What’s Included
Typical price range: $18,000–$22,000 USD (engine only)
What’s Included:
- Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine
- Optional gearbox (ZF or KM)
- Engine mounts, control harness, and digital panel
- Documentation + warranty card
Warranty:
- 2 years (pleasure use)
- 1 year (commercial)
- Optional extended warranty from Yanmar authorized dealers
Final Verdict: Is the 4JH110 Right for You?
If you’re repowering a cruiser, trawler, or sailboat in the 40–50 foot range, the Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine should absolutely be on your radar. It’s reliable, modern, serviceable globally, and delivers the perfect balance of power and fuel economy.
Backed by our hands-on experience, dozens of installs, and direct dealer access to Yanmar technical support, we stand behind every Yanmar 4JH110 marine diesel engine we sell.
Next Steps:
- Request a Custom Engine Quote
- View Our Comparison Guide for Yanmar Marine Engines
- Schedule a Repower Consultation with Our Team
Let us help you repower with confidence.
