engine stalls

Thoughts, Ideas and General Questions
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rebeccac
Posts: 6
Joined: Sat Jul 19, 2014 6:41 pm

engine stalls

Post by rebeccac »

I've just got my Shetland 535 on the water. On a floating mooring on the Itchen. Never had a boat before. I'm going on a powerboat course a week on Sunday but I'm desparate to have a go on the river. It shoudl be okay cos I can just go upstream to the sleepy bits.
However, I have had 2 adventures so far, with my engine stalling on me when I am out. Neither more than 50metres from the mooring but this boating is hard on a tidal estuaru! I oared liked crazy and got back in but it was scary. What good books or websites can I learn from? I have an auxilary engine coming on Monday, but Im a bit nervous now that the main will stall and the auxillary and I will end up on the Isle of Wight.
Drewdoc1958
Posts: 12
Joined: Sat Jun 15, 2013 8:26 pm

Re: engine stalls

Post by Drewdoc1958 »

Hi There

I am also relatively new to boating as I have only been out a few times (Scottish sea lochs) myself. However, safety rules and in my opinion, even though you are chomping at the bit, it is unwise to go out without a backup engine. I also had problems with my main engine and had to rely on the 4hp auxiliary on a couple of occasions. I have "bitten the bullet" and my main engine is currently with a reputable o/b specialist in Port Glasgow (cheers Dave :-) ) having a good overhaul. Not cheap but essential.

Enjoy your experiences but be safe, first and foremost :)

Drew
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bobtooke
Posts: 110
Joined: Mon Aug 12, 2013 12:26 am
Location: South London / Newhaven

Re: engine stalls

Post by bobtooke »

Auxillary engine is a must but don't forget that an anchor is a lifesaver too. At least you'll be able to hold a position while you sort yourself out.
"Don't worry, I'm completely lost too"
Currently aboard "Sweet Kismet", Shetland 535 / Honda 50

Experts in freshwater treatment to the marine industry.
http://www.amphibia.co.uk
NelsonAdmiral
Posts: 24
Joined: Thu Oct 10, 2013 7:08 pm

Re: engine stalls

Post by NelsonAdmiral »

Get yourself a VHF radio and license. Its not too hard to do. Wear the kill cord - always when the engine is running.

The engine stalls- but I assume doesnt re-start. There are dozens of reasons for that but it is usually fuel. Get some fuel stabiliser additative. You could also- if youre brave and risky - get some easy-start. You spray this into the air intake to get an engine started. Its a little hazardous - the flame comes out at you and can be scary. But its commonly used.

Make sure the water pumps out of the engine when running. Its a pee hole just above the water line usually. If the engine does not cool it will over heat and get dmaaged. It may stop re-starting if its hot too.

Is the engine a 2-stroke? Has it some oil added to the fuel? Dont add too much. But too little and the engine will get damaged.

Lean some basic engine maintenance. Don't be put off by techno-speak and oily hands.
Learn about ignition timing theory. Learn about the fuel lines - where they are, how to clean the parts. Dont dismantle them though- you'll need to know what you're doing before you try that.

I wish you the best of luck.
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