In the world of navigation, the safety and the good functioning of the engine are not negotiable. Both an outboard engine as in an inboard motor, early detection of the symptoms of wear or failure can save you costly breakdowns, mishaps at sea and even dangerous situations.
Here we point out 5 clear signs that your motor yacht needs an urgent review. If you identify any of them, do not miss: get in touch with us and make sure your boat is in optimal condition before you set sail.
1. The engine starts with difficulty
One of the more obvious symptoms. If your engine takes longer than normal to boot up, or do you need to repeat the process several times, something is not going well. It may be due to a discharged battery, spark plugs in bad condition, problems in the ignition system or a mixture incorrect fuel.
In outboard motors, for example, a bad start can be related to a dirty spark plug, the carburetor clogged, or a malfunction of the sensors or the electronic system.
2. Unusual noise or vibration
If your engine makes noises-metallic, rattling or vibrations out of the ordinary, stop and check. These symptoms usually indicate wear on the engine mounts, propellers unbalanced or even internal problems in the crankshaft or piston.
Excessive vibration can not only cause damage to the engine, but also affect the structure of the vessel, the accessories fitted or the comfort on board.
A sound different from the usual deserves immediate review.
3. Loss of power or slow response when accelerating
Do you notice that your engine responds with less force or takes longer to reach the desired speed? This symptom can indicate several problems: from poor combustion, blockage in the fuel line or a fault in the injection system.
A drop in performance could be related to the electronic case management system or the turbo. It can also be due to dirt in the air filter or fuel.
If the motor falls short, don't force it: check before the problem gets worse.
4. Excessive smoke or a strange color
The emission of smoke is another key indicator.
White smoke: may indicate the presence of water in the combustion chamber (condensation or, worse still, an internal leak).
Blue smoke: is often a symptom of inadequate consumption of oil (wear in segments or retainers).
Black smoke: indicates rich mixture of fuel or problems in the injection system.
All of them must be a reason for urgent review, especially if the smoke is constant and is accompanied by strong smells.
5. Electronic alerts or witnesses turned on
In modern engines, the electronic systems of control tend to show visual alerts or audible to any anomaly. Ignoring them can have serious consequences.
These notices can give you accurate information about the fault (temperature, oil pressure, battery...). Never turn off an alarm once you have identified and resolved the cause.
If your engine speaks, listen to it. The alarms are to prevent greater evils.
Conclusion: it is better to prevent than to repair
A motor yacht is a piece of precision that works in a demanding environment: salt, moisture, vibration and heat. Review it regularly and pay attention to any unusual symptoms is the best way to avoid unexpected breakdowns on the high seas.
If you detect any of these 5 signals, do not leave it for later. In our specialized workshop in Mallorca, we'll help you to diagnose and repair engines, with original parts and professional service. In addition, we will advise you so that your equipment is always in the form before each departure.
