RYA Diesel Engine Course

The main reason for RNLI lifeboat launches to leisure craft is engine failure and as for most things in life prevention is better than cure. As part of the diesel engine maintenance course, you will be taught:

• The principles of diesel engine operation
• How to identify and rectify the more common faults which can arise
• The systems and parts of the engine
• How to bleed the fuel system
• How to change the impeller
• Routine maintenance such as changing filters
• Winter lay up procedures
• Engine electrical systems
• This one day course, which requires no previous experience is highly recommended to anyone who sails a yacht with an engine or who is a motor cruising enthusiast.

All equipment to complete the course will be provided. You just need to bring a notepad. Tea and coffee is provided and you can get lunch from the Village which is a short walk away. Alternatively you can bring a packed lunch to eat in the classroom.

1. The Principles of the Diesel Engine
2. The Four Stroke Cycle
   • The Induction Stroke
   • The Compression Stroke
   • The Power Stroke
   • The Exhaust Stroke
   • Turbocharging
   • Intercooling / Aftercooling
3. The Fuel System
   • The Basic System
   • The Tank
   • Fuel Pre-Filter (Water Separating Filter)
   • Fuel Lift Pump
   • The Engine Fine Filter
   • Injection Pump
   • Injectors
   • Bleeding the System
4. The Cooling System
   • Seawater Cooling
   • Freshwater Cooling
   • Temperature Cooling
   • The Thermostat
   • The Seawater Impeller Pump
5. The Air Systems
   • The Airway In
   • The Airway Out
6. Engine Electrical Systems
   • The Basic System
   • Battery Capacity and Care
   • Drive Belts
   • The Alternator
7. Check List
   • Basic Spares and Tools
8. Importance of Winterisation and Servicing
   • Engine Lubrication
   • Transmission Lubrication
   • Winterisation and Servicing
   • Service Schedule
   • Winterisation
9. Faultfinding

RYA Diesel Engine Course – FAQ’s

These are a few of the questions we get asked by people booking on the RYA Diesel Engine Course. If you have any further queries or are unsure whether this is the course for you please call us on 01243 432485 and we will be only too happy to chat to you.

What time does the course start and finish?

Typically we start at 9.00am and finish at about 5.30pm with an hour break for lunch

What do I need to bring?

You just need to bring a notepad with you and wear old clothes or overalls and if you have your own boat it may be useful to bring your engine manual so that the instructor can go through any engine specific queries.

Where is the course held?

It will be held at classroom 2 in Emsworth Yacht Harbour, Thorney Road, Emsworth, Hants PO10 8BP

What qualifications or experience do I need to complete the RYA Diesel Engine Course?

You do not need to have any qualifications or knowledge of diesel engines to attend this course.

Are there any exams?

There is no exam at the end of this course so just enjoy it without the worry of being tested at the end of the day.

What qualification will I get once I have completed the course

On successful completion of the course you will be issued with the RYA Diesel Engine Course Certificate.

How many people will there be on the course?

We have a maximum of 5 people on a course, so you will get lots of individual attention from the instructor.

Who is a typical RYA Diesel Engine Student?

It is difficult to say what a typical student looks like but we often find that students are:

•  Boat owners who wish to be able to understand more about their engines and to be able to deal with the ,more common problems that arise.
•  People who wish to be more useful crew members by gaining a greater understanding of boat systems.
•  People who may be planning a career in the marine industry and wish to improve their overall knowledge.

What kind of engine do you use?

We use a marinised Yanmar engine during the training. This won’t necessarily be the engine you have on board so you are encouraged to bring along your own engine manual so that the instructor can go through any specific queries you may have.

How do I book?

Just click on the book now button