ARCTIC STAR OPERATING MANUAL
NW Explorations | 25
6.0
Engines and Engine Room
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Diesel engines
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Daily engine room check (5 items)
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Fuel Management
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Engine controls
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Engine gauges
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Startup procedures
Arctic Star is powered with two Caterpillar 3126B diesel engines with maximum output of 420
horsepower each. Diesel engines are very dependable, and our technicians maintain these
engines to high standards. Diesel fuel is very safe, the fuel is not as volatile as gasoline; diesel
fuel will not ignite by a spark like gasoline will. Diesel ignites when it is injected into the cylinder
chamber under high pressure and heat. An electrical spark is not required for combustion inside
the cylinder. Diesel engines will continue to run providing there is a constant supply of fuel and
air to be compressed in the cylinder, and that the engine is properly lubricated and cooled.
6.1
Engine room check
Before getting underway, we advise that you enter the engine room look around at all the
equipment. The easiest way into the engine room is through a small door under the steps
leading down to the galley. Remember to turn on the engine room lights on the 120-volt AC
panel; these are brighter than the 12-volt DC lights. The main objective of the engine room
check is to monitor the general condition of onboard equipment. While you are in the engine
room, look around and ask yourself, “does everything look right?” To help with this, complete
follow the checklist:
Engine room Checklist
Seawater strainers
Main engines and generator sea strainers clear of excessive debris
Coolant level
Between the Cold and Hot level; main engines
Oil drips
Check the oil absorption pads under main engines for significant oil leaks
Fuel filters
Fuel is clear amber without significant sediment and water is absent
Engine oil
Between the low and high marks
6.1.1
Seawater strainers
Coolant (antifreeze) circulates through the engine and absorbs heat; the hot coolant is then
cooled by seawater that is pumped through a heat exchanger and then overboard through the
exhaust port at the stern. Seawater is pulled in through seawater strainers that are forward of
each engine in the center of the forward bulkhead. To check these, place a flashlight to one side
of the seawater strainer, you should be able to see into the basket. There may be some
seaweed in the basket. If you can see light shining through, then it is OK. If there is excessive
debris, the basket may need to be cleaned. Keep the condition of the seawater strainer in mind.
Monitor the engine temperatures as you are cruising. If the temperature exceeds 205°F check
