Engine Checks Prior to Sailing

I – ISOLATE / IGNITION / IN GEAR

• • Gear lever neutral

  • Battery isolator ON

  • Engine space safe to access

  • Ventilation adequate

  • Nothing loose near belts or shaft

W – WATER (Cooling)

• • Raw water seacock OPEN

  • Strainer (clean, lid sealed)

  • Hoses secure

  • Hose clips tight

  • Coolant level correct (if freshwater cooled)

O – OIL

• • Engine oil (correct level, not milky)

  • Gearbox oil (correct level, clean)

  • No oil leaks

B – BELTS

• • Alternator / water pump belt (correct tension, no cracks, glazing or fraying)

  • Belt deflects slightly under thumb pressure

B – BILGE

• • Bilge reasonably dry

  • No oil, fuel, or coolant present

  • No smells

  • No loose items

L – LOOK (General Condition)

• • Fuel level sufficient + reserve

  • Fuel valve OPEN

  • No fuel leaks

  • Battery terminals secure

  • Engine mounts secure

  • Shaft and coupling visually OK

E – ELECTRICS / ENGINE PANEL

• • Battery isolator ON

  • Panel warning lights illuminate pre-start

  • No loose or corroded connections

START ENGINE

• • Neutral confirmed

  • Start engine (no prolonged cranking)

AFTER START – 30 SECOND CHECK

• • Cooling water flowing from exhaust

  • Oil pressure light OFF

  • Charging light OFF

  • Engine running smoothly

  • No alarms

  • No abnormal noise, vibration, smoke, or smell

BEFORE LEAVING BERTH

• • Short warm-up

  • Ahead engaged briefly

  • Astern engaged briefly

  • Steering response confirmed