Marine Turbocharger Failure Signs in Diesel Engines

Blogpost

February 25, 2025
5:28 pm

The turbo system is an eminent machinery in the engine room. It extracts exhaust gases to produce energy that drives many marine engine components. Marine turbocharger failure is evident during operation, raising concerns for the ship staff during the voyage. Periodic diagnosis of turbocharger parts is as crucial as the engine and electrical systems in various vessel parts.

The technical support team at Alfa Marine Spare Parts strives to support fleet owners with genuine marine engine spare parts. We are herein sharing a comprehensive guide to detecting marine turbocharger problems. Early measures can save thousands of dollars on expensive equipment upgrades. It also saves the vessel from critical accidents, injuries, and damage.

Symptoms of Malfunctioning in a Marine Turbocharger

There is no denying the efficiency of diesel engines in powering large cargo ships. Despite the maintenance, these internal combustion engines release a high volume of exhaust gases after each cycle. Marine turbochargers are crucial in exhaust gas management and produce energy to power various vessel equipment during a sea voyage.

Turbochargers are exposed to high pressure, heat, and stringent marine environments. Hence, frequent wear and tear of the pivotal parts are evident in turbo systems. Marine engineers recommend regular monitoring and diagnosis to arrange early repairs. Periodical maintenance and repairs can save fleet owners from severe marine engine damage and mishaps.

Here is an overview of vital symptoms of faulty operations in marine turbochargers.

Weird Sounds in Marine Turbocharger

Unusual noises in the engine room depict the first sign of emerging complications in the marine turbo system. The grinding, screeching, spinning or whining sounds can evolve due to damage, wearing, or misalignment in the marine turbocharger cartridge.

Do not ignore the weird noises in the expensive ship’s equipment. When left unattended, this can damage the adjacent parts, poor energy efficiency, harmful emissions, and overheating. Fixing minor issues can save you money on costly repairs and extended overhauls.

Descending Acceleration and Energy Output

Watch the fuel consumption in the marine engine. Low power output and descending fuel economy only mean the turbocharger is not functioning efficiently. Moreover, poor turbo performance causes reduced acceleration and problems in propeller functioning. It imposes pressure on the engine to regulate more cycles to power the vessel since the turbocharger fails to produce the required energy from the exhaust gases.

Unusual Thick Black Exhaust Smoke Release from the Funnel

The typical exhaust smoke changes attributes if there is a faulty marine turbocharger functioning. Such instances result from prolonged operation without maintenance.

The possible cause of greyish and black smoke coming out of the engine is often linked to the passage of leaking oil into the exhaust system. Check the quality of exhaust smoke periodically to ensure your vessel complies with the emission regulations on international waters.

Odd Burning Oil Smell

The engine’s combustion chamber exhaust gases carry soot into the marine turbocharger. Clearing the exhaust air passageways at regular intervals is crucial to prevent clogging.

Blocked air passage may regulate the flow of combustible oils into the exhaust system. Oil leakage into the exhaust system can cause burning due to excessively heated surroundings.

Dashboard Warning Indicators

Modern vessels’ marine engines and turbochargers are equipped with cutting-edge sensors to produce a warning signal when something is unusual. For instance, the illuminated check engine light might indicate a problem in the turbocharger.

The cabin crew in large ships regularly monitor the fault codes on the operator’s dashboard to identify an issue as early as possible.

New Vs. Remanufactured Marine Turbochargers – Which is Best for Ships

Many globally renowned marine engine brands produce remanufactured turbochargers, cartridges, and other vital engine parts. These goods feature the same quality and expected lifespan as the new counterparts. However, reman marine engines and turbo systems give the ship owners an advantage. Buyers can save more with these economical options.

Are you looking for Reman Cat and Perkins marine engine parts?

We sell remanufactured items bearing comprehensive manufacturer warranty. If you have any issues within this period, the manufacturer offers full coverage per company policies.

Genuine Marine Turbochargers and Spare Parts for Efficiency and Performance

Whether you are a shipbuilder looking for bulk items or need minute authentic spares to restore your vessel’s functionality, we are always there for your needs. Visit our store gallery to explore the entire collection of marine engines and spare parts from Cat, Deutz, Yanmar, Komatsu, Wartsila, Scania, MTU, John Deere, Cummins, Perkins, and others.