Diesel engines are installed in just about every yacht and in most large motorboats and, while professional help is often at hand, sometimes it is not. Indeed, engine failure is one of the most frequent causes of RNLI launches. This book explains how to prevent problems, troubleshoot and make repairs using safe techniques. It could also help you save money on expensive bills for yard work you could do yourself. Diesels Afloat covers everything from how the diesel engine works to engine electrics, from fault finding to out of season layup. With this guide and your engine’s manual you can get the best performance from your boat’s engine and be confident in dealing with any problem. The book covers the syllabus of the RYA Diesel Engine and MCA Approved Engine (AEC-1) courses. This edition has been thoroughly modernised and updated by former course lecturer and currently chief engineer on merchant ships, Callum Smedley.

“An excellent contemporary reference that’s easy to follow. Plenty of clear diagrams and photos of both old and new engines help illustrate the main points, making the content accessible to those without a technical background.” (Practical Boat Owner) “The simplicity and clarity of the book’s presentation will instil confidence in anyone wishing to work on their engine and at the same time avoid expensive yard bills.” (Towpath Talk) “With this guide and your engine’s manual you can be confident in dealing with any problem and get the best performance from your boat’s engine.” (Sailing Today) “A solid and worthwhile book from which all may learn even if they turn gratefully to the boatyard engineer for help. Recommended.” (Yachting Monthly) “This is a typical Fernhurst effort: clear, concise, authoritative and good value… His text is supported by clear diagrams; good use is made of photographs and colour… With its combination of coverage, compactness and value, we suggest that it would be worthwhile for owners to keep a copy of the book on board… it ought to be the standard textbook.” (Little Ship Club) “A well-illustrated and informative encyclopaedia of diesel engines and much more… The authors use many clear photographs, drawings and diagrams to illustrate the text. Of the many books available on the subject I would probably consult this first due to its ease of use and clarity.” (Cruising Association)

Pat Manley was a keen sailor and one of Practical Boat Owner magazine’s team of experts, answering readers’ questions. He is author of Fernhurst Book’s Simple Boat Maintenance, Essential Boat Electrics, Electrics Companion, Diesel Companion and Practical Navigation. Callum Smedley has spent a lifetime at sea or teaching seafarers. He has worked for a range of shipping companies, including as chief engineer on diesel ships. He has also taught engineering and MCA classes at the North Atlantic Fisheries College.