Engine Update on Jocalia

Tim P writes…

Engine Update on Jocalia

Our engineers have now completed a detailed inspection of Jocalia’s main engine and have identified a significant mechanical issue that requires prompt action.

Findings

During their investigation, Marc and his team confirmed that the head gasket had failed on cylinders 1 and 4, both on the port side of the engine. Photographs taken during the inspection show clear evidence of this failure. Further examination revealed historic damage to the cylinder bores, visible on the cylinder walls. This appears to date back to the incident in March/April 2023, when water entered the bores via the deck drain/anti‑siphon line.

Although the precise cause of the gasket failure cannot be conclusively established, the engineers believe it has been deteriorating for some time. A heavy build‑up of carbon and coke within the exhaust system indicates long‑standing compression issues. Similar deposits were also found around the head bolts on cylinders 1 and 4. The problem only became obvious recently when worsening conditions in cylinder 1 created the unusual noise that prompted Friday’s inspection.

Recommendation

Given the engine’s age, running hours, damaged bores, and the likelihood of additional cylinder head concerns, Marc recommends that we replace the engine outright with a new unit supplied under warranty. He believes that the cost of attempting a full removal and overhaul would be better invested in a full re‑power, which is also likely to return Jocalia to service more quickly. Marc will be speaking with Volvo Penta to confirm availability of a suitable replacement engine and to begin preparing a full evaluation and costed proposal for the work.

We will update members as soon as we have further information, particularly around timing and any implications for Jocalia’s schedule.