Marine engines are designed and fabricated to withstand harsh environmental and operational conditions. However, these systems are not infallible. These motor units will deteriorate over time due to natural wear and tear. Unfortunately, numerous marine engines reach the end of their service life sooner than expected due to negligence. The lack of proper care will not only cause shortening of the lifespan; there will also be other issues like increased need for repairs and the risk of unexpected breakdown. Here are some tips to ensure that your marine engine serves you longer:
Plan for Oil Changes
Most, if not all, boat owners understand the importance of changing the motor oil in the engine on a regular basis. However, it is not unusual to delay or even overlook this important task. Consequently, the engine is exposed to old and dirty oil, and the quantity of the fluid might be insufficient. It is important to keep a schedule to ensure that regular oil changes are conducted. You should note that an appropriate plan for oil changes will depend on the specific engine. Therefore, check your manual and follow the recommendations.
Avoid Long-Term Disuse
All engines need to run on a regular basis to ensure optimal health. In simple terms, when an engine is neglected for a long time, the components will begin to deteriorate. This can be attributed to the lack of oil circulating around the internal parts and systems. There will also be development of rust in the inner surfaces and even sticking of crucial moving components. Therefore, you should not leave your boat idle for long periods. Make time to run the boat for a while to keep it in top condition.
Understand Common Problems
You should understand the common problems which can affect your marine engine. This is essential for identifying problems during the early stages and conducting corrective action. One of the main issues you might face is corrosion due to the accumulation of salt deposits in the engine. It is possible to avoid this problem by making time for proper flushing of the system after your trips on the ocean. You should also avoid the accumulation of sludge, water and other strange materials in the fuel system. In addition, it is advisable to check for signs of neglect like clogged strainers, old antifreeze, blown fuses and loose belts.
If your boat engine is damaged or showing signs of disrepair and degradation, consult a marine engineer for help.
