Checklist: Troubleshooting a diesel engine
A systematic procedure when the engine acts up
As a ship fitter troubleshooting engines is a core discipline. The secret is not to throw yourself at the most advanced theory first but to proceed systematically from simple to complex.
§1. Start with the basics
- 01Is there fuel, and is it clean and free of water?
- 02Are battery and electrical connections in order?
- 03Are there signs of oil, fuel or coolant leaks?
§2. Read symptoms and data
Listen to the engine, feel for vibrations and read instruments and any error codes. Write down what you observe – the pattern in the symptoms often points to the cause.
§3. Narrow down the system
Determine whether the problem lies in the fuel system, intake, exhaust, lubrication or cooling system. By eliminating one system at a time, you narrow down the fault instead of taking the whole thing apart at once.
§4. Document and finish
When the engine is running again, note what the error was and what you did. It helps you and your colleagues next time a similar error comes up.