This article is an excerpt from NauticEd’s online Skipper Large Keelboats Course, a comprehensive online sailing course for beginner to intermediate sailors to learn how to sail large sailboats 26 ft (8m) and above. The Skipper Large Keelboats course is part of the Skipper Course Bundle of online courses, also teaching you how to master maneuvering under power and docking!
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Sailboat Diesel Engine Fluids
Diesel engines make use of a variety of fluids, including raw and coolant water, diesel fuel, and lubricating oil. A problem in the flow of any one of these fluids can cause problems. Diesel engines produce a lot of heat due to high compression and this heat must be efficiently dissipated.
Knowing the purposes and flow routes of diesel engine fluids is simple and useful if the engine has a problem. You are not required to be a diesel mechanic, but you should be familiar with these fluids, their operational levels, and of course, flow.
A prudent suggestion is to visually inspect the engine every time you go sailing. This visual inspection may provide clues to any potential problems and will establish a baseline of knowledge. Specific information for inspecting the type of engine you have is readily available in your owner’s manuals. The location of filters, dipsticks, and hoses is dependent upon the engine size and is also found in your owner’s manuals.
You can learn more in the Skipper Course....
Knowledge and theory for longer distances and overnight sailing in diverse conditions. The Skipper Course is a comprehensive online sailing course for beginner to intermediate sailors wanting to learn how to sail larger sailboats 26ft to 56ft. Or upgrade to the Skipper Course Bundle of online courses to also master maneuvering under power and docking!
