RYA Diesel Engine Course
Marine Diesel Engines are reliable and relatively simple, however, they do require routine maintenance.
The RNLI report that engine failure is the main reason for lifeboat call outs to both sailing and powerboats. Completing this course should help you avoid becoming another statistic, save you money, but it could also save you your life.
The RYA Diesel Engine Course provides you with an awareness of the main systems of the diesel engine and simple measures to take to keep them in working order. It will also look at how to deal with problems if they occur and how to prepare your engine for a winter or long term period of not being used.
Courses are run on demand please contact us for available dates.
Endeavour Sailing has put together a document for you on simple daily engine checks you can do to help keep your engine running smoothly, along with regular servicing. We have a little acronym for our daily engine checks:
WOBBLE
- W = water filter
- O = Oil
- B = Belt
- B = Bilges
- L = Levels
- E = Engine/Exhaust
Water Filter
Shut the seacock and then remove the filter and give it a good rinse under the tap and put back in – make sure the cap is securely fitted and you MUST remember to open the seacock. The reason for closing the seacock is to ensure the pump stays flooded thus preventing any unnecessary wear on the impellor.
Oil
Check level and keep topped up. Keep a spare bottle of oil just in case. Generally it is a good idea to keep the oil close to the top mark on the dip stick, however, do NOT overfill.
Belt
Check for damage and tension. The belt drives both the fresh water pump and the alternator, any loosening of the belt will reduce the efficiency of the pump and may reduce the charging output from the alternator.
Bilges
Look for signs of leaks which may indicate something more serious.
Levels
Fresh water coolant level to be precise – ensure it is topped up and you have spare coolant on board. The coolant is an antifreeze/corrosion inhibitor not just fresh water. However, in an emergency fresh water could be used until you can top up with proper coolant fluid.
Engine/Exhaust
Before starting the engine check the propeller is clear and no stray lines are hanging overboard. Once started check there is a good flow of water from the exhaust (check for a minimum of 30 secs). Alllow the engine to warm up, so it “ticks over” smoothly before setting off.
Spares you should carry:
Fuel; Oil, Filters, Belts, Impellor, Suitable tools
Please click here for a downloadable printable PDF document.
