This post begins somewhat in the middle of things. This is not good:
Pictured: prop shaft (left), diesel transmission (right), transmission fluid (red, puddled).
That’s not the first time it leaked out- this was a test after wiping everything squeaky clean to see where the leak was. The transmission is leaking to the point that the dipstick comes out bone dry if we don’t stay on top of it.
Envolee is a pampered and often-sailed boat and this is just evidence that ‘stuff happens’. By applying a sheet of paper towel evenly to the bottom of the transmission, I thought I’d identified the source of the leak by comparing to the engine’s layout diagram: either the drain plug or a seal on some other things next to it. It’s a ‘TechnoDrive’ on a Nanni (marinized Kubota) diesel; on the paper towel port = left and down is aft.
Unfortunately, on the next check the leak was still present but the bottom of the drain plug seemed dry. On the good news side of the ledger, we have plenty of transmission fluid.
Conclusion: the mechanic has a project upon arrival in Bermuda. The access to the port side of the transmission is terrible (only access port in the engine casing is on the stbd side). Even trying to get a wrench on the drain plug was a nightmare- race boat, so we don’t have a socket set. Hopefully, it’s something simple like the drain plug not being seated properly (feels ok on a hand check) or needing a replaceable seal.
We’ve also had some problems with engine belts and coolant. Respectively, those problems were “the belts previously installed on the engine were intended for a washing machine not a heavy diesel” and “needed to top it off”. Fortunately, we discovered problem #1 while still in port and were able to get appropriate replacements. Problem #2 just required stopping the engine and letting it cool down so we could open the cap and refill, unless it resurfaces.
We should still make Bermuda on Saturday- crossing our fingers because the clearance office closes at 4 PM.
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