COMBUSTION ENGINE TROUBLESHOOTER
15-2. Complete failure of a power plant at a crucial moment may imperil both ship and crew. Even
comparatively minor engine trouble, if not recognized and corrected as soon as possible, may develop into a
major breakdown. Therefore, every operator of an internal-combustion engine must train to be a successful
troubleshooter. It may happen that an engine will continue to operate even when a serious casualty is
imminent. However, if troubles are impending, symptoms will probably be present. The success of a
troubleshooter depends partially upon his/her ability to recognize these symptoms when they occur. A good
operator uses most of his/her senses to detect trouble symptoms. He/She may see, hear, smell, or feel the
warning of trouble to come. Of course, common sense is also a requisite. Another factor upon which the
success of a troubleshooter depends is his/her ability to locate the trouble after once deciding something is
wrong with the equipment. Then he/she must be able to determine, as rapidly as possible, what corrective
action must be taken. In learning to recognize and locate engine troubles, experience is the best teacher.
Instruments play an important part in detecting engine troubles. The engine operator should read the
instruments and record their indications regularly. If the recorded indications vary radically from those
specified in engine operating instructions, it is a warning that the engine is not operating properly and that some
type of corrective action must be taken. Familiarity with the specifications given in engine operating
instructions is essential, especially those pertaining to temperatures, pressures, and speeds. When instrument
indications vary considerably from the specified values, the operator should know the probable effect on the
engine. When these variations occur, before taking any corrective action, the operator should be sure that such
variations are not the fault of the instrument. Instruments should be checked immediately when they are
suspected of being inaccurate. Periodic inspections are also essential in detecting engine troubles. The
following are some of the troubles that can be discovered when performing periodic inspections: