A malfunctioning diesel engine failure is by far the most common reason for emergency rescue calls when out at sea. Marine charters and fishing boats are the most affected when requiring marine diesel engine repair. Most marine engine malfunctions can usually be traced to a minor issue that has gone completely unnoticed.
This summer, it is important for boating enthusiasts and owners to be keenly aware of the condition of their marine engine as with all parts of a vessel. Fortunately, there are some easy to recognize signs owners can look out for to ensure they won’t need expensive marine diesel engine repair or to completely replace the engine altogether.
Routine Maintenance and Inspection
The most common issues that can affect a diesel engine are easily recognizable if you are looking for the right signs and can be typically addressed with routine maintenance and inspection. Marine diesel engine repair can be relatively easy when you make a consistent habit of inspecting the engine before and after setting off. This can ensure that minor problems and issues can be addressed before they become much more expensive later.
It does not matter whether you are a diesel mechanic, amateur boater, or marine engine technician; anyone can perform troubleshooting to identify the problem. An excellent example of this is making a consistent routine of using a dipstick to check fuel gauge accuracy. Sometimes, all a diesel engine needs is some extra fuel. You would never know without checking. Below are a few other common issues associated with marine engine repair.
Air Leakage Associated With The Air System
When a marine engine is operating, the air system is in an open position and can make hearing any air leaking difficult if not impossible. This can cause the commonly underestimated and overlooked issue of an air leakage. The easiest way to find the leak is by tracing the airlines and physically feeling the connections and joints for any apparent leakage. You can also blackout the diesel engine deliberately and listen for the hissing sound.
A Leakage With The Fuel Valve or a Malfunction
Routinely checking the fuel system and fuel valve for a sudden temperature change inside one of the units is the best way to prevent a fuel valve malfunction or leakage and avoid expensive marine diesel engine repair later on. While you perform the examination of the unit, be certain to also perform a pressure test and revamp the fuel valve. Consistent maintenance of the fuel oil systems can prevent these problems from occurring.
Broken or Defective Gauges, Sensors and/or Alarms
Sensors and gauges on board any vessel can be affected by poor connections, internal vibrations, extreme temperatures and dust. Keen boat owners will be certain to regularly perform tests and inspections of all on board sensors and gauges. One easy way to do this is by using the local readings as opposed to the remote readings while including all meters and gauges for proper functioning. A faulty sensor or gauge can cause an unnecessary emergency call and a ruined afternoon at sea.
If you have any questions or wish to speak to an expert, contact a marine diesel mechanic.
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Marine Diesel Engine Repair
