Premium Riviera Repower – FPT Cursor 9 Upgrade

The Perfect Match – The Cheese to Your Red Wine

Some combinations just work. The right marine engine paired with the right vessel makes all the difference.

This recent Riviera repower, completed at South of Perth Yacht Club, is a perfect example of how modern marine technology can transform performance, reliability and overall ownership experience – without overcomplication the installation.

Watch the repower video below.

The Objective

The Riviera originally ran two mechanical Iveco 8460 marine engines. While reliable in their time and still running when taken out, the goal of this repower was clear:

• Renew long-term reliability
• Refresh the vessel and move forward in technology
• Improve performance while keeping the setup efficient and practical
• Avoid paying inflated premiums for name brands without getting real-world benefits

Diesel technology has evolved significantly, from mechanical diesel, to unit injection, and now common rail systems. This repower was about embracing that progression.

The Solution

After careful consideration, the FPT Cursor 9 620 marine engines were selected.

Built in Italy, FPT engines deliver exceptional quality, reliability and the latest common rail technology, without the unnecessary price tag often associated with big-name brands. In many cases, they deliver more.

Engine Specifications:

• Inline 6-cylinder configuration
• 8.7L displacement
• 620HP per engine
• Compact design for improved engine room space

The result is a setup that feels familiar, but performs on a completely different level.

Efficient Installation by Design

At THT, we focus on making repowers as efficient and cost-effective as possible.

For this Riviera, we were able to reuse:

• Existing fuel system components
• The same gearboxes
• Rear engine mounts
• Pong Box
• Exhaust system

This approach allowed for a smoother installation while delivering more power, more space and significantly improved reliability, without reinventing the entire vessel.

Throttle Control System Upgrade

On the day the old Iveco 8460 engines were to be removed, the Riviera’s Hynautic hydraulic control system failed, reinforcing the importance of updating aging components during a repower.

The solution was a full upgrade to Flexball throttle controls, another premium Italian-made product.

• Adaptable to mechanical or electronic marine engines
• Precise, smooth control
• Built for reliability and longevity

To complement this, the Flexball Wireless Remote control (WRC) 6F was also purchased along the system, allowing control of:

• Forward and reverse
• Bow thruster
• Stern thruster

A true premium addition for close-quarter manoeuvring from anywhere onboard the vessel.

Performance: Before vs After

Previous Setup – Iveco 8460

• 500HP @ 2200rpm
• Max speed: 20 knots @ 2000rpm

New Setup – FPT Cursor 9

• 620HP @ 2530rpm
• +120HP per engine
• +330rpm per engine
• Comfortable cruise speed: 20 knots
• Max speed: 28 knots @ 2530rpm

What was once the vessel’s maximum speed is now its effortless cruise speed, a dramatic improvement in usability and enjoyment.

The Result

This Riviera now benefits from modern common rail diesel technology, delivering a significant increase in horsepower while improving cruising efficiency and overall driveability. The compact inline-six FPT Cursor 9 620 marine engines have freed up valuable engine room space, while providing a more reliable, future-ready setup designed for long-term ownership. With improved control systems and a comfortable cruise speed that was once the vessel’s maximum, the repower has transformed both performance and the on-water experience. Creating a perfectly matched package built for confidence, comfort and longevity.

Thinking About Repowering Your Boat?

If you’re considering a repower for your Riviera or any premium vessel, THT can guide you through the process – from engine selection to efficient installation and ongoing support.

📞 Get in touch with us today to discuss your repower options – (08) 9344 4844.