Whether your boat has been feeling like it has had performance issues for a few days, weeks or even months, or if you have experienced a sudden spluttering before it breaks, no one wants to have a problem with their boat's engine. As the very core of the system, the only thing that gets you going through the water, and unfortunately one of the most expensive parts of a boat, it is a distressing and costly problem when things start to go wrong.

Engines are a complex system, which is hard enough for mechanics to understand let alone the average boat owner. There are lots of moving parts and what may seem like the problem may not, in fact, be the root cause. However, every boat owner should be able to understand the most basic problems that boat engines get, how to identify them and the basics of what needs to be done to fix the problem. Here are the three most common problems you might come across with a marine diesel engine, and how to spot them.

1. Engine overheating

While you will easily and quickly be able to spot an overheating engine from the excess and sometimes dangerous amount of heat it generates, it will also sometimes cut out due to this high level of heat. There are many different problems which can lead to engine overheating, and a good starting place is to check that enough water is being drawn in to cool the system. Next, look for anything which might be clogging or covering the pipes or grills - for example, a plastic bag which has been trapped over the engine cover.

2. Problems with your transmission

If you are having trouble getting where you want to go, your engine and propeller seem out of sync or you can't get into the right gear, it is likely something is up with your boat's transmission system. The transmission system is a crucial part of the engine system, and while it is not an exciting part you will certainly know if something starts to go wrong! You'll need to take the boat to a professional to get this fixed; however, even for those used to car transmissions, the boat transmission system is a thousand times more complicated.

3. Change your oil 

Oil can be considered the life blood of your engine, and this is even more important in diesel engines as they require a more effective and intense lubrication. If you intend to make your boat run as smoothly as possible you should be changing the oil at least once a year, or more if you use the boat year-round, and it is a job you can absolutely do yourself.

For more information, contact your local Yanmar marine diesel engine repair service.