MDI box by-pass
Volvo is having a lot of problems with their MDI (Mechanical Diesel Interface) boxes. This is the electronic box that supports the engine sensors, functions and alarms (start, stop, revs, temperature, oil pressure and NMEA2000 interface) on Volvo D2 series engines. The failures have resulted in the engine stopping unexpectedly and/or failing to start when required. I always want to be able to start my engines. I therefore added a start / stop button to by-pass the MDI box.
It is not much work. Just buy any On-Off pulse knob on internet and a tubing clamp like I have done. A bit of wire and done. All in all it is maybe half an hour work per engine. Note that when you start your engine this way, that many functions may not work such as battery charging (!) and RPM / Hour meter. For me, being able to start the engine when entering port or getting away from hazardous situations, is very important. There has been a product recall for part number on product 40869657.
There is a good article about the issues and possible remedy: MDI Article
Hi Robbert and Luuke,
Concerning the push button, is it with the same one that you start the engine by pushing and another push to stop it?
Sorry but I’m far from my boat right now and can’t try it.
I need to know before I order the push-button.
Thanks,
Philippe
(Helia 44 )
You use the start button only to start. To switch off, there is a lever on the fuel pump already.
Hi
I have D1-30F in my sailboat, and I have had a break down in my MDI unit. A new MDI is now mounted and the motor starts and run again as usual. So far everything is ok, but for how long?
If I mount a start button as you describe, are there any risks of damaging anything else in the motor? Of course the start button will only be used in an emergency situation.
Thanks, Steen
Hi Steen,
The motor doesn’t really care how it is started. A diesel engine basically runs by it selves and can only be stopped by cutting off the fuel. There is no ignition.
The MDI box automatically pre-heats and starts the engine. It controls the engine data to the network, if connected, activates the stop solenoid etc. You will notice that if you bypass the MDI box that the alternator is not working either. So your batteries are not charged. Also the blower in the engine room is not working. More problematic is that the windlass will not work if it is linked to the motor via a relay as on our boat. We need to run the port engine to operate the anchor windlass. I made a bypass so that I can always hoist the anchor.
Im still waiting for mdi black box.new volvo d 130. 2 months ive been waiting.enging done 80 hours.and still no sign of black box delivery
No black box delivery. 2 months now. Is it worth making a court case
My Volvo D1-30 has been on the hard in Antigua for 2 years but now I’m not able to get it running. It cranks and fires, it’s trying to run, but won’t. Compression test is fine. So would you conclude the failure is the MDI, which is now 15 years old? Thanks for your thoughts.
Hello, when you need to use the MDI box by-pass button should you turn off all connectors to the so-called “black box” from you?
hi very helpfull and lots of stuff i will do on our boat thanks for all info – what amp does starter button needs to be and what wire 6mm or 10mm ?thick