• Introduction – principles of the diesel engine.
  • The Four- Stroke Cycle. Naturally aspirated engines. Turbocharging. Intercooling and aftercooling.
  • The fuel system. Fuel tanks. Water-separating pre-filter. Fuel lift pump. Engine fine fuel filter. Injection pump. Injectors. Bleeding the fuel system.
  • The cooling system. Seawater cooling,. Freshwater cooling. Temperature Control. The thermostat. Sewater impeller pumps.
  • Lubrication. Engine Oils and specifications. Oil circulation system.
  • The air system. The airway IN – ventilation requirements, air filters. The airway OUT. Exhaust systems.
  • Engine Electrical Systems. Battery capacity and care. Drive belts. The alternator.
  • Spares and Tools.
  • Winterisation and servicing. Engine lubrication oil changes. Transmission system oil changes. Service Schedule.
  • Fault-finding.

Additional Topics Included on Elite Sailing Diesel Courses:

  • Battery types and performance. Battery charging systems – alternator and shore power chargers. Split charging and relay charging systems. Engine instruments – oil pressure, coolant temperature, charging current.
  • Transmission systems. Gearboxes and couplings. Propeller shafts, bearings, shaft seals, p-brackets. Propellers.
  • Engine Controls. Throttle and gearshift. Morse controls.
  • Troubleshooting Guidance