Would a car mechanic know about boat engines or would you need someone who specializes in boats?

Question

Would a car mechanic know about boat engines or would you need someone who specializes in boats?

Answer 1

if its a big boat with a v8.

Answer 2

no go to a marine mechanic

Answer 3

Depending on the craft a motor mechanic or diesel fitter would be able to work on a boat engine.

Answer 4

All engines go suck, squeeze, bang and blow.  There are variations but an engine mechanic, if at all competent, should have no problem dealing with a boat engine.

Answer 5

First, it depends on the boat engine.  If the engine is the powerhead on a outboard motor, it is difficult due to the different design and fitting of parts compared to a regular vehicle engine.  A well experienced automotive mechanic would at minimum need a full factory service manual on it and 2 to 6 hours studying it (rough guess).  For complete overhauls of outboard motors, someone needs to be certified for rebuilding them.

As for inboard (direct drive or sterndrive) based engines, the engine is much more like an automotive engine and easier to work with than outboards.  So some things like replacing the starter solenoid, starter, altenator, doing a carb throttle adjustment, water pump, distributor cap, spark plugs is much easier.

Do remember that marine engines have parts and wiring specifically designed to work better in marine environment and the most important reason of this is, are designed NOT to produce a spark danger.  A single spark with gas or diesel vapor in the engine compartment can easily cause an explosion.  It does happen and it damages, destroys, and kills.

In short, you need to hunt for a reliable marine mechanic certified to work on your boat, not an automotive mechanic.  I'm sure some automative mechanics may do marine mechanic work on the side or something similiar, but do not settle for less than having your boat serviced by a reliable and certified marine repair shop.

Answer 6

Auto mechanics and machine shops can handle most engine problems.  However, The longer that you've been in the boat business as a mechanic, the more likely your diagnosis is correct the first time.