S T E L L A
Class Association
The 'Amateur Stella Surveyors' Checklist (continued)
Engine
It should start easily (with water pump belt off and only for about 30 secs without cooling!), but running without load may not reveal a smoky
diesel, big end and other bearing wear, prop shaft alignment or leaking stern gland problems.
Any apparent water weeps and oil dribbles? Discoloured paint around the top of the engine can indicate overheating having taken place in the past.
Exhaust system in good shape? 'Swan neck' and seacock at exhaust outlet if water cooled?
Can you detect play in the stern bearing by pulling at the prop in any direction?
Any old engine servicing bills lying around? - these can provide some evidence of a well looked after installation.
It is said that Diesel engines need replacing about every 16 years, longer if well looked after. They can be reconditioned well, but you need to weigh up
the number of extra years you expect to get against the cost of a new installation. The latter can be very expensive!