Diesel Deep Dive: Modern Emissions Tech
When Rudolf Diesel invented and patented the design for the first pressure-ignited heat engine (commonly known as the diesel engine today), I doubt he would have expected to see the changes to performance, efficiency, and…
What Else Can Your Engine Do for You?
This Perkins has a hydraulic pump for power steering. Aboard many recreational and commercial boats, the main engine may be equipped to drive more than just the boat. From pump drives to generators, the power an engine…
Diesel Deep Dive:When to Repair vs Replace
There are cases when replacing with a new engine may actually be cheaper than a rebuild. The question of whether to repair or replace an engine component, or the entire engine itself, is complicated. Answers vary greatly…
FAQs from a Diesel Mechanic
Throughout my career, I have been asked many questions about what I do and why, or for tips and tricks to keep customers’ engines happy and healthy. Here are some of the most common questions I get and how I typically…
Diesel Deep Dive: Electrical Gremlins in Your Engine Compartment?
From the June 2022 issue of 48° North. Working as a marine engineer and mechanic, I have seen and continue to see some of the worst DIY electrical jobs on boats, both recreational and commercial. Unlike residential…
A Closer Look at Diesel Fuel
This article was originally published in the April 2022 issue of 48° North. In my last column (February 2022), we talked about oil’s function and filtration in a marine diesel engine, and noted that it is one of several…
Diesel Deep Dive: Functional Oil Filtration
(Caption) Engine room of the Maritime Instructor (Seattle Maritime Academy training ship). All engines are equipped with spin-on or cartridge style filters. This article was originally published in the February 2022 issue of…
Diesel Deep Dive: Quirks of the Engine Cooling System
Exploring the quirks of the marine diesel engine cooling system. This article was originally published in the October 2021 issue of 48° North. It’s a beautiful sunny day, and the water is calling. Once the diesel is started…
Diesel Deep Dive: Buying a Rebuilt Engine
This article was originally published in the August 2021 issue of 48° North. Summer is upon us, and so is boat buying season! For those of us dreaming about a new boat, there can never be enough scouring of boat ads. Hope…
Diesel Deep Dive: Is Your Engine Sending Smoke Signals?
This article originally appeared in the June 2021 issue of 48° North. In the 1890s, Rudolf Diesel created the first compression ignition oil-burning engine, and it was was large, heavy, smoky, and slow turning. While the…