Engine failures build up over time
Friday, 14th March 2025
Marine Diesel Engine failures don’t happen overnight—they build up over time
Bartech Marine Engineering Case Study
A marine operator’s Caterpillar marine diesel engine failed, and Bartech were called to assist. During the inspection, there was increasing fuel oil contamination in the sump, vibration issues, blue smoke, and reduced power output. Further investigation revealed that cylinder 12 had a partially missing valve, allowing unburned fuel to flood the sump. There was also water ingression in both cylinder banks—an issue that could have been prevented with regular checks.
The True Cost of Neglected Maintenance
Turbocharger Damage – Both turbine wheel assemblies were compromised, reducing engine boost pressure and overall power.
Corrosion & Water Contamination – Found in the air cooler air box, accelerating wear and reducing efficiency.
Cylinder & Piston Damage – A missing inlet valve caused severe damage to the piston crown, while debris from the failure affected another cylinder.
Camshaft Wear – Scoring was found on one of the journals, indicating progressive deterioration.
Damage found on Caterpillar engine
Instead of a quick overhaul, this vessel required major rectification work, which could have been avoided with routine servicing. Fortunately a suitable replacement marine diesel engine was found to get them back up and running with minimal downtime. The original engine will now undergo a full engine overhaul to ensure it’s available when needed, preventing future disruptions.
Why Preventative Maintenance Matters
Avoid Expensive Failures – Small issues, if caught early, prevent catastrophic breakdowns or more expensive engine repairs.
Minimise Downtime – Routine servicing keeps vessels operational when it matters most.
Extend Engine Life – Regular inspections protect your investment and performance.
Ensure Reliability – Reduce the risk of unexpected failures at sea.
Preventative maintenance isn’t just an expense—it’s an investment in reliability, efficiency, and cost savings.
To see how Bartech Marine can help keep your diesel engines running at their best visit our website at www.bartechmarine.com
