Overview

The Vetus M3.29S Marine Diesel Engine with Sail Drive forms part of Vetus’ advanced M-Line engine series, developed to meet the demands of modern sailing yachts and recreational marine applications. Combining compact dimensions with innovative engineering, the M3.29S provides an ideal balance of performance, efficiency, and onboard comfort.

Producing 27 horsepower, the engine is particularly suited for sailing vessels requiring dependable auxiliary propulsion and efficient cruising performance. Its integrated sail drive system simplifies installation while improving maneuverability and propulsion efficiency.

The redesigned M-Line incorporates numerous upgrades focused on noise reduction, service accessibility, cooling efficiency, and long-term reliability, making the M3.29S a popular choice among boat owners and boat builders alike.

Applications and Vessel Compatibility

The Vetus M3.29S Marine Diesel Engine is designed for a variety of sailing and recreational marine applications.

Suitable vessel types include:

• Sailing yachts
• Coastal cruising sailboats
• Offshore cruising yachts
• Performance sailboats
• Catamarans
• Auxiliary sailboat propulsion systems
• Marine repower projects
• Recreational cruising vessels

Its compact dimensions and integrated sail drive configuration make it especially attractive for installations where engine room space is limited.

The engine is frequently selected as a replacement for older sailboat propulsion systems due to its modern design and efficient operation.

Quiet Operation and Enhanced Comfort

One of the standout features of the Vetus M3.29S is its exceptionally quiet operation.

The redesigned M-Line incorporates a unique water-cooled aluminum top cover that absorbs radiant engine heat while reducing noise levels. Combined with an advanced intake air filter system, the engine achieves a sound reduction of approximately 5 dB(A) compared to previous designs.

Benefits include:

• Reduced engine noise
• Lower vibration levels
• Improved onboard comfort
• More enjoyable cruising experience
• Enhanced passenger comfort

At typical cruising speeds around 2200 RPM, the engine operates with near-silent characteristics, making it particularly appealing for sailboat owners who value comfort during extended voyages.

Innovative Water-Cooled Engine Cover

A major innovation in the Vetus M-Line Series is the advanced water-cooled aluminum engine cover.

Advantages include:

• Up to 15°C temperature reduction
• Approximately 20% lower engine compartment temperatures
• Reduced radiant heat
• Improved engine room comfort
• Enhanced noise attenuation
• Strong enough to serve as a step surface

This innovative design improves both engine performance and usability while helping maintain optimal operating conditions.

The robust aluminum construction also contributes to long-term durability and service life.

Service-Friendly Design

The Vetus M3.29S Marine Diesel Engine has been engineered with maintenance convenience in mind.

Easily accessible components include:

• Fuel filter
• Fuel connections
• Oil filter
• Oil dipstick
• Fuses
• Relays
• Impeller
• Electrical connections

Additional maintenance benefits include:

• Improved wiring system
• Front-service accessibility
• Optional front-mounted filter kits
• Self-bleeding fuel system
• Easy inspection points

These features help reduce maintenance time and simplify routine servicing procedures.

For vessel owners and service technicians alike, improved accessibility translates into lower maintenance costs and greater convenience.

Fuel Efficiency and Reliability

The Vetus M3.29S is designed to provide outstanding fuel efficiency while maintaining dependable propulsion performance.

Key advantages include:

• Efficient diesel combustion
• Low fuel consumption
• Reliable starting
• Consistent power delivery
• Reduced operating costs
• Long service intervals

The engine’s automatically self-bleeding fuel system simplifies maintenance following fuel filter changes and helps maintain dependable operation.

This combination of efficiency and reliability makes the engine well suited for extended cruising and long-distance sailing applications.

Sail Drive Performance and Installation Flexibility

The integrated sail drive system provides several advantages over traditional shaft-drive installations.

Benefits include:

• Improved propulsion efficiency
• Enhanced maneuverability
• Simplified installation
• Reduced vibration
• Better space utilization
• Smooth power transfer

Available sail drive configurations include:

• SP60 – 2.15:1
• SP60 – 2.38:1
• SD10 – 2.23:1
• SD10 – 2.49:1

These options allow boat builders and owners to select the ratio most appropriate for their vessel’s operating characteristics and performance requirements.

Electrical and Safety Features

The Vetus M3.29S Marine Diesel Engine includes a comprehensive range of electrical and safety systems.

Standard equipment includes:

• 12V 75-Amp marine alternator
• High-output charging capability
• Oil pressure monitoring
• Coolant temperature monitoring
• Exhaust temperature monitoring
• Charging current monitoring
• Audible alarm system
• Warning light indicators
• Pre-heating control light

These systems help protect the engine while providing operators with important operating information.

The powerful alternator also supports onboard electrical systems and battery charging requirements.

Technical Specifications

The Vetus M3.29S Marine Diesel Engine with Sail Drive produces 20 kW (27 horsepower) at a maximum engine speed of 3600 RPM. The engine features a 952 cm³ displacement and utilizes a 3-cylinder diesel configuration with bore and stroke dimensions of 76 mm × 70 mm.

The engine is equipped with a 12-volt 75-amp alternator, indirect cooling as standard, and optional keel cooling capability. Sail drive options include SP60 (2.15:1 and 2.38:1) and SD10 (2.23:1 and 2.49:1) configurations.

The M3.29S complies with EU-RCD II, BSO, and SOLAS certification standards. Maximum installation angle is 15° backward, with continuous lateral inclination up to 25° and temporary inclination up to 30°.

These specifications create a highly efficient and reliable propulsion package for modern sailing applications.

Product Support and Parts Availability

Owners of the Vetus M3.29S Marine Diesel Engine with Sail Drive benefit from Vetus’ extensive support network, including technical documentation, maintenance resources, service support, and genuine replacement parts availability.

Customers can also explore related Vetus marine engines, sail drive systems, control panels, marine accessories, and propulsion components to complete their vessel setup.

Professional technical support and maintenance guidance help ensure reliable long-term operation and maximum engine performance.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much power does the Vetus M3.29S produce?

The Vetus M3.29S delivers 27 horsepower (20 kW) and is designed primarily for sailing yachts and auxiliary propulsion applications.

How many cylinders does the engine have?

The engine features a 3-cylinder diesel configuration with a displacement of 952 cm³.

Is the engine supplied with a sail drive?

Yes. The M3.29S is available with multiple sail drive options including SP60 and SD10 configurations.

What makes the M-Line engine quieter?

The redesigned water-cooled aluminum top cover and improved air intake system help reduce engine noise by approximately 5 dB(A).

Does the engine include a charging system?

Yes. The engine is equipped with a 12V 75-Amp marine alternator for efficient battery charging.

Is the fuel system self-bleeding?

Yes. The automatic self-bleeding fuel system simplifies maintenance after fuel filter replacement.

Why is the Vetus M3.29S popular among sailboat owners?

Its combination of 27 horsepower, quiet operation, fuel efficiency, integrated sail drive compatibility, easy maintenance, and proven Vetus reliability makes it an excellent sailboat propulsion solution.