Caterpillar Marine Engine Maintenance Tips from the Pros

Owning a boat is a huge investment of money and labor. But if you’re up to the task, the whole exercise can be quite rewarding.

To ensure smooth sailing, engine maintenance is something you can’t afford to ignore. Routine care and upkeep can prevent costly issues from developing down the line, which is why it’s best to stick to a regular maintenance schedule.

Below, we’ve detailed some marine engine care tips based on advice from experienced boat owners.

Use Antifreeze

Antifreeze has certain thermal properties that keep the engine coolant from freezing. In regions with below-freezing temperatures, antifreeze with a minimum of 50 percent glycol concentration should be added to prevent the formation of cracked blocks.

Additionally, antifreeze also comes in handy in warm climates where high temperatures can damage the engine. It raises the boiling point of the coolant and ensures that the engine does not overheat.

Keep the Battery Clean

Many components in modern boats—such as lights, starting engines, radios, and other electronics—depend on electric batteries to function. To extend battery life, it’s best to keep battery surfaces clean and grease-free. To prevent unwanted accidents, ensure the battery is attached securely in a safe location on the boat.

Regularly Inspect Battery Components

Battery components should also be regularly inspected for damage so they can be replaced beforehand. You’ll need to examine all the cables and battery connections, as well as any starter connections once every week.

Before you take the boat out for a ride, it’s best to check the level of electrolytes and the battery charge. While you’re out cruising, keep an eye on the discharge rate for any anomalies. If you notice the battery draining quicker than usual, it’s best to head back to safety and do a detailed examination of the boat.

Use Correct Engine Fluids

The importance of using the correct engine fluids cannot be stressed enough. Your engine’s cooling system requires deionized or distilled water—using tap water or ‘softened’ water can reduce your engine’s efficiency and even cause permanent damage in the long run.

Troubleshoot Engine Issues

If your boat’s engine seems to be malfunctioning, it’s best to get expert repair services for the task. At CATECM, we excel at a variety of marine ECM repair services, including repairing boat engines and boat computer parts.

Our skilled technicians have over ten years of experience in working with engines and can help diagnose the problem and repair your engine too.

To get in touch with our expert technicians, call (817)382-8227.