Marine DieselAustralia

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Repower & buying · Page 54

Marine Diesel Ownership Costs

Budget for marine diesel servicing, haul-outs, saildrive work, repairs, spares, fuel and eventual replacement.

Costs vary too much by model, access, location and damage to publish a universal price list. Remote labour and freight, difficult engine access, seized fasteners and yard delays can dominate the invoice.

Build an annual budget in categories:

Category Include
Routine service Oil, filters, impeller, belts, coolant checks, labour
Calendar work Coolant, hoses, exhaust inspection, batteries, corrosion control
Haul-out propulsion Anodes, drive oil, seals, diaphragm planning, bearing and propeller
Condition monitoring Oil samples, electrical tests, cooling inspection, sea trial
Contingency Starter, alternator, pumps, sensors, injectors, mounts and freight
Capital reserve Major overhaul, gearbox or saildrive replacement, repower

Twin-engine catamarans double many consumables but also allow efficient scheduling because both sides can be serviced together. A generator adds another diesel, raw-water system, exhaust, start battery and maintenance calendar.

When comparing quotes, check whether prices include GST, haul-out, crane, fluids, freight, fabrication, propeller work, wiring, commissioning and follow-up alignment. The cheapest engine package can produce the most expensive installation if it requires major structural or exhaust changes.