Dr. Marina AlcoverAcademic director focused on measurable results and operational excellence in maritime education. Integrates IMO/STCW regulations and ISO 21001/9001 f
Course · 300 h · 5 modules
Marine Diesel Engine Diagnostics Course
This course will provide you with the tools and specialized knowledge to detect and troubleshoot faults in these critical systems. Learn to interpret performance data, perform advanced diagnostic tests, and apply preventive…
Duration300 h
FormatOnline
Starts23 November
Places20 / 20
Prior knowledge
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Programme overview
What is the Marine Diesel Engine Diagnostics Course?
The Marine Diesel Engine Diagnostics course
This course will provide you with the tools and specialized knowledge to detect and troubleshoot faults in these critical systems. Learn to interpret performance data, perform advanced diagnostic tests, and apply preventive maintenance techniques to optimize engine life and efficiency. This program combines fundamental theory with practical exercises based on real-world case studies.
Differential Advantages
- Predictive Diagnostics: Anticipate failures through vibration, oil, and thermographic analysis.
- Use of Cutting-Edge Tools: Learn to operate state-of-the-art diagnostic software and measuring equipment.
- Injection System Analysis: Master the calibration and repair of injectors and fuel pumps.
- Performance Optimization: Adjust key parameters to reduce fuel consumption and emissions.
- Effective Corrective Maintenance: Solve common problems such as leaks, overheating, and power loss.
Programme type
Course
Study mode
Online
Duration
300 hours
Modules
5
Start date
08-12-2026
Programme highlights
- Diagnostic Fundamentals: Learn to identify common faults in marine diesel engines and interpret performance data.
- Tools and Techniques: Master the use of measuring equipment, diagnostic software, and standardized procedures.
- Systems Analysis: Delve into the operation of injection, cooling, lubrication, and exhaust for accurate diagnosis.
- Practical Cases: Apply your knowledge in real-world simulations and case studies to reinforce your learning.
- Maintenance Predictive: Implements strategies to prevent breakdowns and optimize engine life.
- Acquire the essential skills for efficient diagnostics and effective solutions in marine diesel engines.
Curriculum
Programme Structure
The programme is structured in 5 modules, listed below in order of study.
01
Fundamentals of marine diesel engines, mechanical operation and initial diagnostic criteria
- Marine diesel engine concept and differences between auxiliary engines, main engines, inboard, outboard diesel and hybrid installations
- Principles of combustion diesel, intake, compression, injection, expansion, exhaust and power generation
- Main components: block, cylinder head, pistons, connecting rods, crankshaft, camshaft, valves, injectors and injection pump
- Peculiarities of the marine environment: salinity, humidity, vibration, tilt, water cooling and prolonged operation
- Frequent Symptoms: Starting difficulty, smoke, loss of power, vibration, overheating, high consumption and abnormal noises
02
Fuel system, injection, filters and failures of diesel supply
- Fuel Circuit: Tank, Lines, Pre-Filters, Filters, Feed Pump, Injection Pump, Common Rail and Injectors
- Contamination by water, sediments, microorganisms, air in circuit, degraded diesel and filter blockage
- Diagnosis of startup faults, sudden stops, irregular idle, loss of power and slow throttle response
- Air purge, leak check, supply pressure, fuel return and condition of connections
- Defective injectors, improper spraying, dripping, charcoal, imbalance between cylinders and excess smoke
03
Intake, turbocharged, exhaust and smoke analysis in marine engines
- Intake System: Air Filters, Manifolds, Turbo, Intercooler, Hoses, Clamps and Flow Restrictions
- Turbocharging, blowing pressure, clearances, oil in intake, noise, non-response and loss of performance
- Wet or dry exhaust system, exhaust elbow, silent, back pressure, leaks, corrosion and water inlet
- Interpretation of black, white, blue and grey smoke according to combustion, oil, refrigerant, fuel and operating temperature
- Diagnosis of carbon, soot, obstructions, gas leaks, poor air mixture and incomplete combustion
04
Refrigeration, lubrication, temperature and prevention of critical breakdowns
- Freshwater cooling system, salt water, heat exchanger, pump, impeller, thermostat and mixed circuits
- Overheating failures: obstructions, impeller damaged, blocked sea outlet, air in circuit, corrosion and low refrigerant level
- Lubrication system: oil, pump, filters, pressure, temperature, cooler, consumption and degradation of the lubricant
- Low oil pressure, contaminated oil, presence of water, emulsion, leaks and internal wear
- Ratio between temperature, lubrication, load, speed, maintenance and engine life
05
Applied Marine Diesel Engine Diagnostic Project
- Case definition: main engine, auxiliary engine, diesel generator, recreational boat, working boat or marine installation
- Initial diagnosis with symptoms, maintenance history, hours of use, operating conditions, alarms and observable risks
- Design of the inspection plan with fuel, intake, exhaust, cooling, lubrication, electricity, vibrations and functional tests
- Preparation of the measurement procedure, verification, purge, filter review, smoke analysis and temperature control
- Development of the probable cause report, corrective actions, preventive maintenance, spare parts and subsequent monitoring
Workload
Study Time and Workload
300 hours of study, online and at your own pace. Move the slider to the hours a week you can really put in.
Hours a week8
Weeks to finish—
You finish around—
Who it is for
Naval engineers and technicians seeking to deepen their knowledge of fault detection and troubleshooting in marine diesel engines.Chief engineers and engine officers wishing to optimize the performance and service life of onboard engines.Naval/maritime engineering students seeking to acquire practical skills in diagnosing marine diesel engines.Vessel maintenance personnel needing to reduce r
Faculty
Academic direction and faculty
The teaching team at Navalis: working professionals who deliver and oversee the institute's programmes.
Eng. Diego Cifuentes
Cap. Javier Abaroa (MCA)
Dr. Pau Ferrer
Dr. Nuria Llobregat
Eng. Javier Bañuls
Eng. Sofía Marquina
Eng. Tomás Riera
Verified reviews
Student Reviews
Reviews collected and verified by Opynio, not written by us.
Outcomes
Learning Outcomes
- 01Identify and analyze common failures in marine diesel fuel systems
- 02Interpreting diagrams and technical manuals for troubleshooting marine diesel engines
- 03Perform accurate diagnostic tests using specialized tools on marine diesel engines
- 04Apply preventive maintenance procedures to optimize performance and extend the service life of marine diesel engines
- 05Evaluate the condition and efficiency of cooling and lubrication systems in marine diesel engines
- 06Develop skills to accurately disassemble and assemble major components of marine diesel engines
Careers
Career Opportunities
01Engineer/Chief Engineer on Vessels: Preventive and corrective maintenance of marine diesel engines.
02Service Technician in Shipyards and Naval Workshops: Diagnosis and repair of engines in land-based facilities.
03Marine Diesel Engine Technical Inspector: Evaluation of the condition and regulatory compliance of vessels.
04Technical Consultant: Advising on the selection, installation, and management of engines.
05Salesperson/Technical Representative: Distribution and support of engines and spare parts.
06Instructor/Trainer: Training in the diagnosis and maintenance of marine diesel engines.
07Marine Surveyor: Investigation of engine failures and breakdowns for insurance companies and shipowners.
08Design/Development Engineer: Improvement and adaptation of diesel engines for marine applications.
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Questions
Entry Requirements
Heavy fuel oil.
Yes. The itinerary includes ECDIS/Radar-ARPA/BRM with harbor, ocean, fog, storm, and SAR scenarios.
Online with live sessions; hybrid option for simulator/practical placements through agreements.
Identify and troubleshoot problems in marine diesel engines to ensure their efficient, safe, and reliable operation.
Recommended functional SMCP. We offer support materials for standard phraseology.
Yes, with a relevant degree or experience in maritime/port operations. The admissions interview will confirm suitability.
Optional (3–6 months) through Companies & Collaborations and the Alumni Network.
Simulator practice (rubrics), defeat plans, SOPs, checklists, micro-tests and applied TFM.
A degree from Navalis Magna Institute + operational portfolio (tracks, SOPs, reports and KPIs) useful for audits and employment.
Online admissions
Admissions Process
No waiting for a phone call. If your documents are complete, you can pay in the same session.
Entry requirements
Academic/Professional Profile:Vocational Training Certificate in Automotive Engineering, Mechatronics or equivalent; or Professional Certificate in Diesel Engine Maintenance; or Demonstrable work experience in the repair and maintenance of marine diesel engines.Technical Knowledge:Solid knowledge of mechanics, electricity, and electronics applied to diesel engines.Familiarity with injection systems, turbochargers, and cooling systems.Skills:Ability to interpret diagrams and technical manuals.Ability to use diagnostic tools and measuring equipment.Problem-solving and ana
Questions?
Frequently Asked Questions
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