Your vessel is a network of complex systems, all working in harmony when you throw lines and head out on the water. If you’re considering a marine repower project, take the time to consider all of the different on-board systems that could potentially be affected by replacing your propulsion system. The links below are to a series of articles that look at all these different systems. Take your time to learn about them, and how they could be impacted in a repower project.
All of the articles on this page are supplied by Steve D’Antonio Marine Consulting and are the property of the author. All information in these articles is provided purely as reference to the reader to give more insight into vessel system maintenance, and for additional consideration in planning a repower project. ZF does not claim any knowledge or expertise outside of the areas of marine transmissions, propulsion systems controls, and marine propellers. The opinions expressed in these articles are purely those of Steve D’Antonio Marine Consulting. ZF recommends that you always consult with a professional when considering a large scope project such as a marine repower.
Repowering Process Library
Cleaning fuel tanks: Starting off your newly repowered vessel with dirty tanks is a recipe for failure and dissatisfaction with your new powerplant. This article explains how to safely and effectively clean diesel tanks. Download Cleaning Diesel Tanks PDF
Coolant recovery bottles: While coolant recovery bottles are optional for many engines, their worth to the user is incalculable, every new engine should eb equipped with one, as it enables the user to determine the health of the engine’s closed cooling system. Download The Benefits of Coolant Recovery Bottles PDF
Battery charging: Properly charging start and house batteries via an engine-driven alternator is an essential part of any vessel’s DC electrical system, it goes hand in hand with a new engine installation. Download Alternator Charge Regulation PDF
Stuffing boxes: Repowering is a good time to take a close look at the stuffing box, particularly if you are considering a dripless model. This article will provide a balanced look at the pros and cons of each type of dripless option. Download Keeping Your Bilge Dry with Dripless Stuffing Boxes PDF
Stuffing boxes II: Conventional stuffing boxes are among the most reliable components on your boat, however, they do need care, adjustment, and repacking from time to time. This article will explain the details involved in a stuffing box inspection and refit. Download Conventional Wisdom for Conventional Stuffing Boxes PDF
Motor mounts: Motor mounts typically get replaced with engines, but many installers give little thought to this process, or selecting mounts that may offer more than average performance. This primer explains how motor mounts work, as well as what to look for in existing and replacement mounts. Download The Engine Room’s Unsung Hero; Motor Mounts PDF
Belts: Fan belts, both V style and serpentine, are essential for the operation of any internal combustion engine. Once your new engine is in service you’ll want to monitor yours to make sure they are wearing properly and properly adjusted where necessary. Download Belts PDF
Working with a boat yard I: It is perhaps the most important aspect of any repower project, finding the right professionals to carry out the job, making certain they complete the project properly, as well as ensuring you know what it will cost before you begin. This two part article will tell what you need to know to vet a repower yard and then work with them effectively. Download Cracking the Code – Working with Boat Yards and the Marine Industry Part I PDF
Working with a boat yard II: Download Cracking the Code – Working with Boat Yards and the Marine Industry Part II PDF
Alignment I: A critical aspect of every repower is ensuring proper alignment between engine and shaft, and between shaft and support bearings. This two part article will explains the steps necessary to ensure the alignment is correct for your new engine installation. Download The Ins and Outs of Engine and Shaft Alignment Part I PDF
Alignment II: Download The Ins and Outs of Engine and Shaft Alignment Part II PDF
Underloading: Perhaps the first and most important part of any repower is selecting the proper size engine, too small and performance will suffer, too large and the engine will not be properly loaded, which can lead to a series of related problems. This article explains the issues associated with under-loading, and how to avoid them. Download The Perils of Chronic Under Loading PDF
Propeller installation: Repowers are often accompanies by new or reconditioned propellers, and surprisingly many are installed improperly. This article will explain proper propeller installation technique, from key and keyway inspections to lapping and torqueing. Download Propeller Installation PDF
Engine room ventilation: Without proper ventilation, an engine may not be able to develop its rated horsepower, or the engine room may be too hot, shortening the life of the gear within. Make sure your engine can breathe properly by following the tips in this article. Download Venting the Engine Room PDF
Fuel system plumbing: Reliably and safely supplying fuel to an engine is a critically important aspect of a repower. Original fuel plumbing and valves should be evaluated for both safety and ABYC compliance. This article will enable readers to carry out that assessment as well as guiding them through upgrades or modifications. Download Fuel System Plumbing PDF
Exhaust system design: Exhaust must have a means of safely and efficiently leaving the engine and vessel. Too much restriction in an exhaust system reduces engine power and can void the warranty, not enough insulation can lead to overly hot engine rooms and even fire, and improper design can allow water to back up into your new engine. This article touches on these and other key aspects of exhaust systems. Download Exhaust System Design PDF
Sea trails: Once an engine is installed, it should be thoroughly and rigorously evaluated, to ensure it performs properly, and develops its rated power. Follow the steps listed here and you can be sure your new engine, and those who have installed it, have been properly vetted. Download Sea Trials PDF
Raw water strainers: Engines need clean water for cooling purposes, providing it means using the correct strainers and/or hull scoops. The material set forth in this article will help you and those installing your new engine make the right raw water-related decisions. Download Strainers PDF
Engine room firefighting systems: Standards established by the American Boat and Yacht council call for the installation of an automatic fire fighting system in every diesel engine room. How those systems are selected, designed and installed plays a critical role in how well they will work if needed. This article will tell you what you need to know about engine room firefighting systems. Download Engine Room Firefighting System PDF
Fuel filtration: Without an adequate supply of clean, water-free fuel, even the mightiest engine will grind to a halt; dirty fuel can not only leave you stranded, it can damage your engine’s fuel injection system. The tips shared here will help you select the right filter and filter accessories to ensure your engine always has clean fuel. Download Primary Fuel Filtration PDF
Ready to explore your repower options? Please fill out the ZF Repropulsion Inquiry form or call 954.441.4052 with any questions.
