Know where you stand on diesel vs. gas: the marine engine debate

Under the very best, most pristine conditions, a gasoline marine engine will last, on average, 1,500 hours before needing a major overhaul. Built to a finer tolerance, well-maintained diesel marine engines will last some 5,000-8,000 hours before a major overhaul, and, may well last the life of the boat. Although diesel marine engines can be considerably more expensive than their gasoline counterparts, the durability, maintenance cycles and fuel safety-diesel fuel and fumes, with their much higher flashpoint, will not explode the way gasoline fumes can-make diesel boat motors a wise overall choice.

I recommend: Trusted names in marine engines manufacturers include Volvo Penta, Caterpillar and Mercury Marine. For more information and discussion, check out MarineEngine.com.

Boaters, find your engines

With the abuse that most marine engines endure, there is ample argument to buy your engine new. However, an informed buyer in the used marine engines and rebuilt markets, can power away with some very good deals. Keep in mind that a marine engine is part of a larger power plant, where compatibility and repair schedules may vary.

I recommend: For sales of new and rebuilt marine engines, Recon offers excellent options. Also, contact well-established dealers, like Doug Russell, who can offer new and used marine engine sales and repair information.

Maintain your investment

Checking your oil (know the healthy levels and oil consistency for your engine) and knowing your engine's smoke signals are the two most effective ways to keep your marine engine running. Boat engines should produce clear exhaust. Any color is a potential warning flag. Black smoke, caused by improperly burned excess fuel, indicates engine overload, a blocked air supply or, in a diesel, a malfunctioning fuel injector. Blue smoke means your engine is burning oil, which can indicate worn piston rings, valve guides or oil seals; and in a diesel, an overfilled air filter or oil in the crankcase. Air or water in your fuel produces white smoke.

I recommend: Good maintenance requires know-how and Seloc Marine offers a full line of both printed and online manuals that include maintenance schedules, wiring diagrams, specifications, parts listings, and complete "How To" instructions. To locate a professional, contact your local marina or go online to find marinas at Boatowners.com, “the virtual encyclopedia of boating.”