Chapter Three
Operation, Lubrication, Maintenance
and
Tune-up
A diesel engine must have clean air, fuel, and oil. Regu-
lar preventive maintenance and proper lubrication will
pay dividends in longer engine and transmission life, as
well as safer boat operation.
The lubrication and maintenance intervals provided in
Table 1 are those recommended for normal operation.
If
the boat is used under continuous heavy duty or other se-
vere operating conditions, including infrequent use, per-
form maintenance and lubrication more frequently.
Keep the engine and accessory units clean and free
of
dirt, grime and grease buildup.
It
is much easier and safer
to perform service on a clean engine.
It
is also much easier
to pinpoint any leaks.
Tables 1-6 are located at the end
of
this chapter.
NOTE
Except where specified, F and D series en-
gines are included when a basic model num-
ber is specified. For example.
if
model
3GM
is called out in a procedure. the procedure
also applies to 3GMD and 3GMF.
FUEL REQUIREMENTS
The recommended fuel is number 2 (2-D) diesel fuel.
Be sure the fuel is clean and free
of
water.
NOTE
Poor fuel is one
of
the leading causes
of
rough engine operation or failure to start.
Dirty fuel or water in the fuel can cause expensive dam-
age to the fuel injection pump and fuel injectors. Refer to
Chapter Seven.
PREOPERATIONAL CHECKS
Before starting the engine for the first time each day,
perform the following checks:
1. Remove the engine compartment cover or hatch and
check for the presence
of
fuel fumes.
If
the boat is
equipped with a bilge blower, tum it on for a few minutes.
If
the smell
of
strong fumes is present, determine the
source and correct the problem before proceeding.
WARNING
Always have a Coast Guard-approved fire
extinguisher close when working aroundthe
engine.
2. Check the engine oil level as described in this chapter.
Add oil
if
the level is low.
3. Check the electrolyte level in each battery cell as de-
scribed in this chapter. Add distilled water
if
necessary.
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