How to Avoid Potentially Costly Boat Engine Problems
The boating industry has come a long way since the days you had to use an oar to steer your boat through the water. With the availability of boat engines, you simply have to start your engine and off you go in the water.
Like car engines, boat engines also require some pampering to keep running reliably and safely. To ensure a safe and trouble-free boating experience, you have to see to it that your marine engine is properly taken care of.
Here are some of the best ways to avoid potentially costly boat engine troubles.
Keep an eye on the engine's oil level.
Your boat engine comprises a variety of running parts that require proper lubrication to keep operating at their peak. Engine oil serves as a lubricating agent for the engine as well as a cooling agent, as it dissipates heat generated in the engine away from it. This ensures your engine continues running at optimal operating temperatures.
Engine oil doesn't retain its lubricating and cooling qualities forever. The fluid breaks down over time and will need to be replaced with a fresh supply of oil. Fortunately, boat manufacturers usually indicate how often engine oil changes should be performed on their vessels.
Following your water vessel manufacturer's recommendations on when to perform engine oil changes will keep your engine healthy. It will also help extend its lifespan.
Drain the fuel-water separator regularly.
Every boat has a fuel-water separator to keep water out of the fuel line and prevent it from reaching the sensitive parts of the engine with potentially costly results. This filtering device should be drained regularly to create space for more water. It also needs to be replaced often to minimise the risk of boat fuel contamination from water leaks.
Fuel lines should also be inspected regularly since they're susceptible to cracks and wear.
Use fresh fuel from a fuel supplier.
The quality of fuel that you put in your boat can also impact the health and lifespan of your marine engine. Adulterated fuel may deposit residue in your engine, thus hurting its performance in the long run.
Always use quality fuel from a trusted supplier.
It's pretty much a give-and-take kind of relationship between boat owners and their boats. When it comes to boat engines, in particular, prevention is better than cure. Take proper care of your marine engine, and it will serve you well for many years.
Contact a boat servicing professional to learn more.