Westerbeke 50 - Starting the Engine (Cold)

PREPARATION FOR STARTING
1. Check water level in expansion tank.
below the top of the tank when cold.
2. Check the engine sump oil level.
3. Check the transmission fluid level.
It should be l~ to 2 in.
4. See that there is fuel in the tank and the fuel shut-off is open.
5. Check to see that the starting battery is fully charged, all
electrical connections are properly made, all circui ts in order
and turn on the power at the battery disconnect.
6. Check the seacock and ensure that it is open.
STARTING THE ENGINE (COLD)
Most Westerbeke marine diesel engines are equipped with a cold
starting aid to ease in the starting of your engine when cold.
1. Check to see that the "stop" lever (if installed) is in the "run"
position.
2. place the throttle in the fully open position.
3. Press the "Preheat" button in and hold for 15 to 20 seconds.
4. While holding the "Preheat" button in, turn the keyswitch to the
"ON" or "Run" position. This activates the panel gauges, lights
and fuel solenoid or electric fuel pump if so equipped. Continue
to turn the keyswitch to the "Start" position and hold for no more
than 20 seconds. Some units may be equipped with a pushbutton to
start rather that the keyswitch and in these cases the electrical
system is activated by fuel pressure.
5. If the engine fails to start in 20 seconds, release start switch
and preheat for an additional 15 to 20 seconds, then repeat
step 4.
6. As soon as the eng ine starts, release the start switch and the
preheat button and return the throttle to the "idle" position
immediately.
CAUTION: Do not crank the engine more than 20 seconds when trying to
start. Allow a rest period of at least twice the cranking period bet-
ween the start cycles. Starter damage may occur by overworking the
starter motor and the backfilling of the exhaust system is possible.
STARTING THE ENGINE (WARM)
I f the eng ine is warm and has only been stopped for a short time,
place the throttle in the partially open position and engage the
starter as above, eliminating the preheat step.
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