Marine Diesel Engines: Maintenance, Troubleshooting and Repair

Publisher: Adlard Coles Nautical, £24.99

Publication Date: 3rd Edition; 2007

CA Library Reference: 16765

The 3rd Edition is a major update from the previous edition published in 1997. It reflects the impact of US environmental legislation on the design and installation of large marine diesels. Particular emphasis is given to the introduction of
electronic controls and common rail fuel injection, which affects engines over 100 HP (76 kW).

Although the book is largely technical, it is well illustrated with many black and white photos and exploded views and comes with troubleshooting charts and repair examples, though mainly geared to the US marine market. It could be a good reference book for those who, after completing the RYA Diesel Engine Course, want a deeper knowledge of the problems to be encountered. It is also suited as a reference book for those, with little engine knowledge, embarking on extended cruising, where they may be faced with maintenance and repair of their own engines. However, for the long term sailor, it is not a substitute for a specific engine’s Workshop Manual.

The book contains a number of nuggets of wisdom about how to improve engine installations and so reduce problems. Standard production boats could often benefit from the implementation of these suggestions. There is a useful section on propellor sizing and a number of useful appendices covering tools to have on board and an extensive list of spares to be carried (up to and including the requirements for Blue Water cruisers). - DH