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My carbureted gasoline
inboard continues to run after I shut it off. What is the cause of this,
and what can I do? B. L., via e-mail
This is known
as “dieseling” and occurs when fuel in the combustion chamber
is ignited from a source other than the spark plugs. A dieseling engine
may run for several seconds after being shut down and can even run backwards,
which can draw enough water into the cylinders to seize the engine.
Possible causes of dieseling
include excessive engine temperature, combustion chamber deposits, poor-quality
fuel, and an improperly adjusted carburetor. If your engine is running
hot, check your thermostat and your cooling system for leaks. Otherwise
consult a mechanic.
My tender’s
two-stroke outboard seems to be vibrating more than usual. What could
be the cause? W.S., via e-mail
Some of the
common possibilities are a misfiring cylinder, loose or broken motor mounts,
and a failed bearing. Gear case problems can also be the culprit. This
includes a bent prop shaft, damaged prop, or marine growth on the prop
blades that affects the propeller’s balance. Another possibility
is damage to the leading edge of the gear case, which can cause prop ventilation
and, in turn, vibration. You'll also want to check the tender’s
bottom for any hull deformity that may be disturbing the water flow to
the prop.
I’ve noticed
an occasional puddle of water gathering under my galley’s refrigerator.
I don’t have enough clearance under it to put any kind of container.
Do you have any suggestions? C.S., via e-mail
The water is most likely
coming from the suction line attached to the evaporator coils. As you
can’t get a drip pan in there, you will need to cover the line with
a foam sleeve or wraparound insulation that you can pick up at any air-conditioning
supply store or large supply house like Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Need help with a
maintenance problem? Write to Maintenance Q & A, Power & Motoryacht,
260 Madison Ave., 8th Fl., New York, NY 10016. Fax: (917) 256-2282. e-mail:
ken_kreisler@primediamags.com.
No phone calls, please.
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