Log XXVII - Artemis 1 (Last Days of My Engines) - Part 2

Reasons for you to change your engines from petrol to diesel

1) Cost and efficiency of fuel

Though this is an obvious reason, you also have to take into consideration the huge amount of money and time you have to invest in the engine change operation. After you do the maths, if you are a leisure boater who only goes out once or twice a month, and only short trips to the nearby islands, then the savings in the fuel is not justified. It may take 6-7 years to recover your investment. By then you maybe planning to change your boat already.

But if you intend to make long trips to other countries such as Malaysia or Indonesia, and you will go out boating at least once or twice a week, even if those are short trips. Then it is worth the change. I have calculated that the savings in fuel should be able to write off the initial engine changing costs in about 2-3 years.

Hence your boating style will affect this factor quite significantly.

2) Maintenance and parts

The cost of an engine is not just the engine itself, you will also have to consider the costs of the engine parts and whether they are easily available. If you add up the costs of the parts replacement over the years, it is a heart breaking amount. The availability of the parts is also important as you will not want to be stuck in the marina for weeks just waiting for the engine part to be shipped in from overseas.

The parts for my engine were falling apart due to corrosion. The metal alloy used for petrol engines are generally less sturdy than diesel ones and when it corrodes, it becomes flaky and falls off eventually. Unlike the alloy for diesel engines, when it corrodes, it forms a layer of rust wrapped around the engine block. That is the reason why diesel engines can be used for decades with timely overhaul, and the lifespan of petrol engines are much shorter. I believe my Mercruiser days are numbered.

3) Safety

Diesel is definitely a much safer fuel than petrol. Other than the highly combustible property of petrol, petrol engines also emit much higher amount of carbon monoxide. Because of the above two factors, we have to be more concerned of the safety features on board such as suitable fire extinguisher in the engine room, blowers for ventilation of the engine compartment and carbon monoxide detector in the cabin.

And so that is it, my Mercruisers' fate is sealed.

In my next post, I will share with you what are the critical items that we have to consider when choosing what diesel engines to change.