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Small Craft & Yacht Surveyor

 

small craft & yacht surveyor Cornwall - oil sample analysis

single diesel engine

One of the single most expensive items aboard any vessel is the engine. Whether a family cruiser or a high performance motor boat. The engine (or engines) may cost many thousands of pounds to repair or replace if they are in poor condition and hence, may be beyond economic repair.

According to world-wide engine and construction equipment manufacturer Caterpillar, catching a problem before failure typically results in repair costs of between 5-25% of the engine value - after failure this results in repair costs of more than 65% of the engine value!

Although no invasive testing of machinery will take place during the majority of surveys, a good indication of the condition of an engine, and to provide early warning of future problems is to sample the engine oil (providing the oil has not recently been replaced) and have the oil tested.

 

 What information can be obtained from oil sample testing?

 

Volvo twin diesels An overall condition of the engine can be assessed by testing the the sample for viscosity, water insoluble matter, wear metal particles or contaminant metals, coolant contamination and testing for additives.

With the results from the laboratory tests it may be possible to locate components within the engine that are close to failure. With repeated oil sample analysis at intervals, a trend will be established to spot signs of early complications. It may then be possible for an owner to take less expensive preventative action.

Oil sampling can be done as part of a survey or conducted as an independent test. For your convenience and at intervals to suit you, I will arange to sample, analyse and monitor trends giving you total peace of mind informing you of any significant change in trend.

Note: It should be understood that the sample tested should be treated as a 'snapshot' on that day of that oil condition. The sample will show the amount and type of loose particles/contaminants but may not show if the problem is deep seated and long lasting, or due to a sudden change of circumstances.

 



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