Good news and more good (but expensive) news

The Admiral and I visited the engine shop today. First, the good news. The starboard engine passed its diagnostic test with flying colors. They did re-set the timing, which was off by more than 15 degrees. When we started that engine today, it started after about 15 seconds instead of two plus minutes. It was quite windy today, but it did seem that there was less white smoke, especially after the engine warmed up. There seems to be no need to do anything major to this engine now (or hopefully for a very long time).


In the shop we saw various pieces of the engine, which had been totally disassembled. We discussed our options, but once the engine has been removed from the boat, for a few extra "boat bucks" the engine can be totally re-built. Since this engine is no longer produced, some parts are no longer available, but fortunately, aftermarket replacement parts are available. All of this is what led me to the second part of the title for this post(i.e. the "expensive" news).



The picture is of the oil pan. I am used to seeing the oil pans on gasoline automotive engines that look like a relatively thin piece of stamped steel. This one is massive, and it is cast aluminum at least 1/4 inch thick.



Decisions have been made, parts ordered and work is progressing.