The Universal Atomic 4 is a four-cylinder, gasoline engine produced by the Universal Motor Company between 1949 and 1984 for use as auxiliary power on sailboats.
Are Atomic 4 engines good?
The short of it is that the Atomic 4 is not a particularly unreliable engine in its original form, and there are modern upgrades to make it better. To put the issue of reliability in perspective, it should be understood that few, if any, marine engines are as reliable and maintenance-free as modern automobile engines.
What is an Atomic diesel?
It was a 31 cu in, 11 hp 2 cylinder raw water cooled diesel, based on the Kubota Z-500 block, and fitted with a Hurth transmission. The 5411 was built from 1977 to 1982. Approximately 2,900 were sold. It was replaced by the Model M15, which was produced in 1982 and 1983. Approximately 370 were sold.
How much oil does an atomic 4 take?
On a level bench, it will take approximately 5 – 1/2 quarts to fill an Atomic 4 after an overhaul. Tilted at an angle approximating a normal installation on a sail boat, an engine will only take from 4 to 4 – 1/2 quarts to bring the level to the full mark.
What is an atomic-4 diesel engine?
Atomic Diesel engines are four stroke direct injection engines. They are designed with special swirl combustion chambers, balanced crankshaft system and three point mounting for minimum vibration and noise levels. Model 5411 is available with 4 point mounting to match our Atomic-4 engine bed. COOLING SYSTEM: Models 5416, 5424 & 5432
What kind of fuel does the Universal Atomic 4 use?
UNIVERSAL ATOMIC 4 (‘ GASOLINE Features 30H.P. The Universal Atomic-4 a 100% marine engine, designed and engineered exclusively for powering the world’s finest sailboats. Gasoline engines with stamina, service and reliability equal to diesel power.
Where can I find spare parts for my Atomic 4 engine?
Mark Bressler is keeping his old engine for spares. The BoatU.S. catalog shows 20 common Atomic 4 repair items, including gaskets, ignition, and pump parts. The Alberg 30 website shows an extensive listing of spare parts and where to obtain them. The parts in this list are cross-indexed to several sources.
Will a Universal Atomic 4 engine replacement make my boat safer?
A Universal Atomic 4 engine replacement will not greatly enhance your safety though, unless you also remove your dinghy fuel and perhaps your stove fuel as well. The atomic 4 engine crankshaft and gear casing on Chance, a 1974 Seafarer 34.
