Practical Diesel-Sailboat Information

The marine engine is a fundamental part of your yacht systems. Engines have become smaller, lighter, with higher power outputs. They have also become more efficient with both fuel consumption and exhaust emissions. Improvements in electronics has also lead to improved engine monitoring and control systems

My name is John Payne, and I am a Marine Engineer and I started my long career as a ships engineer in the merchant marine. Yacht engine problems are not so different to yacht and sailboat engine problems. I am also the author of the best selling Marine Electrical and Electronics Bible and the updated and revised 3rd Edition is out now. When I first published this book some 13 years ago we still had larger 2 and 3 cylinder heavy and clunky engines, and improvements in combustion, fuel pump and injector technology were just starting to filter through from commercial engine technology. Turbo chargers and improved monitoring and control along with lightweight alloy blocks instead of heavy cast iron have lead to significant improvements.

The marine engine of today is quieter, uses less fuel, is more efficient and lighter than all its predecessors. The related equipment that includes preheating systems, and starter motor systems have also become more efficient and more reliable. I have over the years built, owned, cruised and lived aboard several sailing yachts and have had most of the problems. I know and understand what the problems are and how to fix them

Like yacht engine technology my books have also moved with the times, and along with my Motorboat Electrical and Electronics Manual and the Understanding Boat series of books you will find the right answers to your many marine engineering questions.

The 4 Secrets to Keeping Your Diesel-Sailboat Operating

The latest marine engines are now very reliable, and also quite economical to install and maintain. You should always have the basic knowledge and understanding to perform basic engine troubleshooting. There are four fundamental factors to keeping your engine operating at peak performance and reliability

1. Clean Fuel. Clean fuel free of water and sediment is essential to good engine performance. Like many I have had my own problems until I installed a Racor Fuel Filter on my Diesel-Sailboat.

2. Clean Lubricating Oil. Clean lubricating oil is also essential, and regular fuel and filter changes are necessary to keep your engine functioning properly on the inside

3. Good Cooling Water Flow. Many engine failures are due to overheating engines. An unobstructed water supply with clean water filters and strainers along with regularly cleaned heat exchangers will eliminate the problem

4. Clean Air. Clean air is not a significant problem on a yacht, although getting sufficient air is often a problem when engines are in small confined spaces.

Looking After Your Diesel-Sailboat