More of this Feature • Reading a Hydrometer, Cavitation • Dieseling, Vibrating Outboard, and more • PMY Tries... EZE-LAP
Related Resources • Maintenance Q&A Index

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.

Next page > PMY Tries... > Page 1, 2, 3