I worry that I have a ticking time bomb in my engine. The alternator seems dangerously close to the oil filter for my comfort. Part of why I’m concerned about this is I was on someone else’s boat with a similar engine configuration and the alternator cut into the oil filter, leading the engine to seize in the middle of a storm. But, that’s a story for another day.
I’ve been watching the alternator carefully and watch for the oil pressure light while I’m at the helm, but it still makes me nervous. When I bought the boat, the hose remnant was zip tied around the alternator to provide a little cushion against the oil filter. Getting a professional to see what they can do about my engine has been in my BoatProject Project list for a while but it hasn’t happened yet.
When I was changing the oil I noticed that the hose was starting to look a little worn in spots. I took this opportunity to adjust the alternator a little further away from the oil filter. After only one injury (at least it’s only my DNA being left on the boat!), I was able to adjust the alternator and give a little breathing room to the oil filter. This had the added benefit of giving me a little wiggle room with the hose piece. I was able to reposition the hose piece to put a little more cushion between the oil filter and the alternator.
Having a professional examine my engine is still in my BoatProject Project list but at least I have a little wiggle room for the moment. Ideally, I’d love to send the pictures and description directly to the marine shop through BoatProject so they can see exactly what I’m seeing. For now, I’ll have to pick up a phone and call them.