What’s the number one thing a boater should do in the hopes of preventing boat engine failure? To ensure routine engine checks are completed. On Britican, we do a series of routine engine checks before EVERY voyage. On the video below, Simon will show you how he completes each check. Scroll down to view a valuable checklist too!
Preventing Boat Engine Failure Video
If you want more in depth information about preventing engine failure, including whether or not to take a Diesel Engine course prior to setting sail and the four reasons we’ve experienced boat engine failure (so you don’t make our mistakes), become a Patreon Patron or Britican Club Member. Our patrons and club members get premium content on a weekly basis.
Below is one of the many checklists you’ll find in our book, ‘Checklists For Sailors: Passage Planning, Maintenance, Cleaning, Medical & More.’ Click the link to get our guide filled with valuable checklists.
Routine Engine, Generator And Ancillary Checks
Pre-journey engine and ancillary checks
- Survey bilge for water, oil or fuel leaks
- Look over engine ensure that there are no lose connections, etc.
- Check water/coolant level
- Check oil levels
- Ensure the belt tension is correct
- Visual inspect Racors (fuel/water separator)
- Rotate the stern gland (if required)
- Ensure the sea strainers devoid of any objects
- Test the bilge pumps – automatic and manual
- Check water tank level
- Check amount of fuel in fuel tank
- Look at the the battery charge level
- Note Fridge temperature
- Note Freezer temperature
- Check that the freezer water flow is flowing okay
- Check the air-con water flow is flow okay
- Ensure the generator oil level is correct
- Check the generator water level
- Test the generator belt tension
- Give the generator an overall survey – leaks, lose connections, etc.
- Close seacocks (if necessary)
- Close hatches, windows and cover vents
- Give the rudder bearing greaser a twist (if necessary)
- Check that the speed log and depth gauge transponder are fitted securely and free from corrosion
When purchasing our checklists (digital or hard copy) you’ll also be provided with the option to get the Word document so that you can fully customize the checklists to suit your boat and your needs.
Checklists For Sailors – Reader Feedback
Rated 5 out of 5
Zarih Sundberg – July 1, 2018
I just started reading it and I can see how useful this is going to be. Thanks to Kim, there is no need for newbies like myself to invent the wheel all over again. I will also buy her other books. The work she has put in is astounding! A comprehensive book! Thanks!
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