Equipment Degradation – Not just when in use.

We’re currently overhauling a couple of Twindisc gearboxes as part of a project on a beautiful 20ft yacht, built back in 1967.

The engines have been out of use for some time, but the gearboxes have been maintained to running hours, so the owners were expecting the gearboxes to just need a quick check over before they’re reused.

It turned out not to be as simple as that.

During our inspection, we found two issues that had absolutely nothing to do with wear or use, but everything to do with the environment the yacht has been left in.

One of the biggest issues was these warning signs of weak spots on the coupling:

It is VITAL critical equipment is thoroughly inspected before being reused.

What’s clear from this picture is that it’s a matter of ‘when’ not ‘if’ these teeth would have snapped if they were left alone.

It’s difficult to predict exactly when that would have happened, and equally difficult to predict where the yacht owner would have been at the time, with every chance that they would have been out at sea and unable to drive any power to the propellers.

Here’s my point:

Just because an engine, gearbox, or other mechanical equipment has not been running, it doesn’t mean it hasn’t degraded, and regular checks are absolutely VITAL if you don’t want to end up a creek without a paddle (or a propeller).

Make sure your critical equipment is thoroughly inspected before being reused, so you are not left exposed

If you need a trustworthy engine specialist with an excellent track record, just pick up the phone and give us a call on 06 791552 or email us at info@bartechmarine.com