Sailing Yacht Engine Checks

Performing sailing yacht engine checks in preparation for a passage helps to avoid breaking down when you are underway.

Engine Checks

Checks Before Starting the Engine

Performing engine checks before starting the yacht is very important. We recommend inspecting the following:

Inspect belts and hoses for damage or wear
Look for leaks
Ensure there is enough fuel for your journey and an adequate reserve amount
Check oil levels
If you have a fresh water cooling system make sure the coolant level is correct
Check stern glands for leaks and grease if required
Inspect filters – particularly water separators in fuel lines
Check the propeller is not fouled.

Checks After Starting the Engine

Sailing yacht engine checks after starting the engine may include:

Check there is a good flow of water from the exhaust pipe
Allow time for the engine to warm up and become smooth before departing.

Fuel Considerations For Sailing Yachts

Concerns have been raised about biofuel in diesel fuel supplies. Boaters need to be aware that increased care is needed in the storage of diesel where it contains biodiesel.

Preventing Fuel Contamination

Biodiesel blends may contain more water than standard diesel. This results in faster corrosion, more sediment, and filters becoming blocked. You can stay on top of these issues with regular checks and fuel management.

Water

Most diesel is contaminated with some percentage of water because it is in the fuel itself. Water may also get into the tank through faulty seals and vent pipes, or from condensation. This may cause bacterial growth inside your tank.

Bacterial Growth

Bacterial growth from water can result in fuel pipe and filter blockage and increase the problems of corrosion. The long term effect of contaminated fuel is that the engine becomes damaged. You can prevent bacterial growth through regular tank checks and preventative leak checks. If you have bacterial growth, empty and clean your tanks.

Oxidation Stability

Biodiesel has a poorer oxidation stability than standard diesel. Longer term, oxidation will cause solids that may block the filters in the fuel distribution system. We recommend that boaters have a fuel turnover period of once every 6 months to minimise the likelihood of this occurring – every 12 months at the very maximum.

It is recommended to keep fuel tanks full and regularly serviced to avoid water contamination, however, a balance must be found between the amount of fuel bought and the amount of fuel used. Our best advice is to try to buy diesel that does not have biodiesel in it. Please remember that the issues above do have the same effect when using standard diesel, but to a lesser extent.