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The motor is a key part that you can't do without. To ensure that your equipment performs well and lasts over time, you need to clean it regularly and change certain parts. But which parts should be replaced on your boat engine, and when ?
One objective : change the various engine parts before the breakage
If it is important to check and replace the components of an engine, it is above all to anticipate breakage. The proper maintenance of your equipment begins with a thorough cleaning and a regular check of the proper functioning of each component.
Warning : parts that still play their part, but no longer function perfectly, can lead to more serious problems for your engine. They must be replaced without delay !
Oil, water, air and fuel filters : wearing parts to be replaced every year
Some engine parts can be described as "consumables" : they must be replaced every year, when the equipment is winterized and drained. This applies whether or not signs of wear are visible.
Fuel, oil, air and water filters, for example, or engine and base oils, are among them. Caution : gaskets must be systematically changed in the event of disassembly !
If your boat has a cable gland, tighten it every season. When the braids are no longer tight enough, change the gland.
Finally, we recommend checking boat anodes every 100 hours of operation. If necessary, they should be replaced to protect the vessel from corrosion.
Spark plugs, belts, glands : engine components to be changed after two years
After two years of engine operation, it is recommended to replace certain components. The spark plug assembly, for example, or the engine alternator belt. Generally speaking, all boat belts that are no longer sufficiently taut should be replaced.
Manufacturers also recommend installing a new swivel gland every 2 to 3 years.
Exhaust manifold and elbows, engine battery and cooling system: important components to replace after several years
While exhaust manifolds and elbows need to be checked several times a year, replacing them can wait a few years. In general, we consider changing them after 2,000 hours or 5 years of sailing. A motor battery that is no longer holding its charge should also be replaced.
Cooling system components should also be checked :
Temperature exchanger cleaning is very important and should be carried out, at least, every 4 years.The purchase of a new exchanger is very expensive and becomes necessary when cooling is no longer effective. The seawater pump turbine should be checked at least every 200 hours, as should the thermostat, which tends to clog up quickly. As for the cooling turbine, it should be replaced before 250 hours of operation have been reached. Every 500 hours, it is recommended to completely drain the circuit.
What you need to remember !
You can't do without regular replacement of certain engine parts. Failing to make these changes could cause serious problems for your equipment, requiring consequent repairs and greater costs. Follow your manufacturer's recommendations, and if in doubt, have your boat's engine diagnostics performed !
Did you know ? Boatngo also offers an engine diagnostic service at the right price !
