Whether you sail a yacht with an auxiliary diesel engine or enjoy motor cruising, this course will teach you the essential knowledge to understand and care for your engine.

By the end of the course, you'll be able to carry out simple maintenance tasks, which will help extend engine life, prevent breakdowns, and save money over time.

This course is also a prerequisite for the ASMA Sailing Master qualification, making it essential for those progressing toward commercial or advanced sailing certifications.

Course content

Principles of the diesel engine

• The four-stroke cycle
• Naturally aspirated engines
• Turbocharging
• Intercooling/aftercooling

The fuel system

• Basic fuel system and tank
• Water-separating pre-filter
• Fuel lift pump
• Engine fine filter
• Injection pump and injectors
• Bleeding the system

The cooling system

• Seawater cooling
• Freshwater cooling
• Thermostat and temperature control
• Seawater impeller pump

The air system

• Air intake
• Exhaust system

Engine electrical system

• Basic electrical system
• Battery capacity and care
• Drive belts
• The alternator

Fault finding, routine maintenance, spares and tools

Instruction and location

The course is delivered by a qualified RYA Diesel Engine instructor in a small-group setting at our waterside classroom.

Tuition and course training pack.

Qualifications 

• RYA Diesel Engine certificate

No previous experience is needed for this introductory course.

• If you spend any time on yachts, you will soon find yourself doing engine checks in real life. Practice makes perfect!
• For a more comprehensive introduction to essential yacht, maintenance, join our Basic Yacht Maintenance course.