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How Much Horsepower Do You Need for Your Boat

How Much Horsepower Do You Need for Your Boat?

December 12, 2019

When you're deciding how much power you want driving your boat, the obvious answer may be "as much as possible." However, raw power doesn't necessarily translate to capability. While a boat's manual or capacity plate will state the maximum horsepower that can be safely harnessed to that vessel, jumping straight to that upper limit will yield diminishing returns. When calculating boat horsepower needs, it's best to consider your boat's size, weight and intended use to inform your engine selection. A well-chosen motor setup will offer an optimal combination of handling, stability and performance. Key Factors for Calculating Boat Horsepower Once you've…
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The History of the Diesel Engine

The History of the Diesel Engine

December 9, 2019

The diesel engine has a rich and storied history. While you may or may not know the name Rudolf Diesel, you're likely familiar with his namesake invention. From the 1900s to the current day, diesel engines have been essential in many industries and have provided increased fuel efficiency in various applications. What began as a passion turned into one of the most important engineering developments of the Industrial Revolution. Rudolf Diesel and the Invention of the Diesel Engine Rudolph Diesel is the German engineer best known for being the inventor of the diesel engine. He was born in Paris, France in 1858, relocated…
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How to Bleed Your Diesel Engine

How to Bleed Your Diesel Engine

December 5, 2019

A solid maintenance routine will keep a diesel engine serving faithfully, and that maintenance doesn't have to be intimidating. For optimal performance, a diesel engine's primary need is a continuous supply of clean fuel. A symptom known as "airlock" occurs when this flow is interrupted by an air bubble, causing the engine to shut down and refuse to start. By bleeding trapped air from the fuel system, you can restore the flow of fuel and get your marine diesel engine running again. This skill is crucial for anyone who intends to be on the water for any considerable length of…
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Caring for Your Aging Marine Diesel Engine

Caring for Your Aging Marine Diesel Engine

November 28, 2019

Wondering how to maintain your marine diesel engine as it ages? You've come to the right place. Diesel engines boast impressive durability, efficiency and longevity, but as they get older, they require more care and attention to continue providing reliable service. Keep reading for useful advice about caring for and prolonging the life of an aging marine diesel engine. How to Service and Maintain a Marine Diesel Engine Emissions standards and other regulations tend to become more stringent over time — yet many aging marine engines are still able to perform within the letter of the law. Here are some of the fundamentals of marine…
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common diesel engine fuel problems

Common Marine Diesel Engine Fuel Problems

November 26, 2019

Diesel engines are efficient, durable and the engine of choice for  boats. If you're a boat operator, you're probably no stranger to diesel engine fuel problems. It's important to know the signs of trouble as soon as they begin. How to Spot a Problem in Your Boat's Marine Diesel Engine Fuel [caption id="attachment_2293" align="aligncenter" width="1090"] Detroit Diesel 671 Engines In A Tugboat[/caption] Here are some of the most common diesel engine fuel problems you're likely to encounter: Deposits in the Combustion Chamber Conventional gasoline burns more cleanly than diesel, which means diesel engines are prone to developing deposit buildups. This…
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diesel engine cylinder head buying guide

Diesel Engine Cylinder Head Buying Guide

November 21, 2019

The diesel cylinder head in your engine probably doesn't get a lot of attention until you notice a problem with your boat's performance. Without cylinder heads, there'd be no pressure seal within engine cylinders or the internal combustion that powers modern engines.   [caption id="attachment_2483" align="aligncenter" width="300"] Detroit Diesel 671 Loaded Cylinder Head[/caption] Additional responsibilities of diesel engine cylinder heads include: Provides a housing at the top of the engine block for the combustion chamber, exhaust valves, lifters and springs. Lets air into the combustion process and evacuates exhaust. Helps fuel and coolant move through the marine engine smoothly. When…
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