Mention a diesel problem to a group of sailors and watch as eyes glaze over with condolences expressed. Many apply benign neglect and wishful thinking to the maintenance of the iron beast below decks, while others try to prevent problems with their checkbook and credit card. A few brave sailors roll up their sleeves and hope for the best. I was part of the latter group, but no more. Self-sufficiency is ingrained in the sailing culture. Sailors who have no fear of tackling fiberglass repairs, solving rigging problems, or mastering the intricacies of onboard plumbing, shy away from their diesel and its mysteries. Yet, a diesel is a very simple machine and understanding the workings of a diesel engine is made equally simple and understandable with Jean-luc Pallas's manual. MDE begins with an overview of how a diesel runs and the systems involved in keeping it running; fuel, air, and electric. The Manual is richly illustrated with large clear photos and simple understandable schematics. Pallas avoids lengthy passages describing a concept, providing instead a short paragraph or two with bullet points highlighting essential information. Each maintenance item is rated for difficulty, simple, technical, or complex to guide the neophyte diesel mechanic. Estimates of the time needed to complete the task and a list of necessary tools accompany the rating. I just wonder how well it will hold up to the inevitable greasy thumbprints and spilled diesel. * NauticalReads.com *
A number of good books deal with outboard motor or diesel engine maintenance and repair, but these two [Marine Diesel Engines Maintenance and Repair Manual and Outboard Motors Maintenance and Repair Manual] come out on top for several reasons. In addition to providing clear descriptions, these easy-to-read books contain step-by-step photographs and graphics that make maintenance and repairs understandable. In the Marine Diesel Engines Maintenance and Repair Manual, the author also describes sail-drive operation, which makes this the only book I know of with such detailed information about the sail-drive propulsion system. The author also breaks down maintenance and repair projects so boat owners will know whether to attempt the repair or call a mechanic. For example, a green wrench indicates a simple repair for the average person, a yellow wrench means that the repair requires some skill, and a purple wrench indicates that the job is complex. When I see a purple wrench, I know it s time to call my mechanic. . . . I highly recommend both books. As with a good novel, I could not put them down and am now ready to tackle some work on my small outboard motor and inboard diesel engine. * The Ensign *
