Having your engine fail while underway can be extremely frustrating. Not only does it put you and your crew in danger, but there is nothing as frustrating as being stranded in the water for hours. As a boat operator, you are aware that diesel engines are made to last and are exceptionally reliable, but you are also no stranger to engine problems should they occur. You see, even with said reliability, one can still experience a problem with one of the components leading to failure. Here are signs you need engine diagnostics and repairs to get you back up and running.
1. Warning Light or Alarm Sound
Onboard alarms are meant for your engine to monitor temperatures and the accumulation of water on fuel filters. When a warning light accompanies an audible alarm, you should shut down your engine to avoid extensive damage. Virtually every marine diesel engine includes an alarm to alert the user to a few key issues, such as low oil pressure or clogged filters. Ignoring the loss of oil pressure alarms or warnings, even for a few seconds, will likely damage crucial components leading to engine seizure.
2. Rough Running Engine
Boat engines today are more reliable than they've ever been. So reliable that you often take this dependability for granted. This is why an unexpected change in performance or anything that gives you the perception of rough running can put a damper on a day of smooth sailing in the waters. Common causes for a misfiring engine include dirty fuel injectors, vacuum leaks, or contaminants in the fuel. Luckily the solution can be as simple as bleeding the fuel system of air, checking the valve on your portable tank, and checking the fuel filters.
3. Overheating
Most boat engines use seawater to cool the engine. That said, while using raw water to cool your engine can be highly efficient, water pumps will often cause overheating due to clogs or broken and disconnected hoses. Several other factors such as a faulty pump propeller, overloaded weight, high speeds, and improper operation can also cause overheating. If you have a modern boat that uses fresh water and coolant to prevent overheating, an obvious solution is to top up your reserve when the engine is resting.
Need help diagnosing your marine diesel engine problems? Contact a technician who offers marine diesel services. These include engine overhauls, installations, repairs, maintenance, and more.
Share22 September 2021
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