Diesel eng. fuel cut off

[chasfav]

I just got a great deal on a boat w. a Westerbeke W-27 (1984) diesel. Unfortunately, the engine's idle and engine cut-off controls are combined on one cable and it's not compatible with the teleflex controls I want to install. Can I place a ball valve or solenoid in the fuel line as an engine cut-off? I don't mind a 2 or 3 minute wait. It's better than letting the tank run dry.

 

[Fabrico]

I'm not familiar with that engine, but the idea probably won't work very well as it may cause high difficulty with starting. With most Diesels, there is a big difference between stopping pumping and running things dry. You need to figure out a way to actuate the original shut-off.

 

[reidh]

Fabrico is correct, compression ignition diesel engines don't like to be starved of fuel.

-Reidh

 

[IceStationZebra]

Depending on the plumbing situation and strength of pump you might suck air into the fuel system. Not good. ISZ

 

[pauljohn]

Best way is to install a 12v solenoid to actuate the engine cut-off.

 

[chasfav]

Thanks to all re Westerbeke W-27 (1984) engine shut off problem. Would appreciate any other ideas.

chasfav
NYC

 

[IceStationZebra]

I tried to find some detailed info on the fuel system shutoff but couldn't. If you could post a link or pictures it would help immensely. ISZ

 

[Fabrico]

Teleflex has single lever dual controls that could do the job. They also have separate hand controls just for engine shut-off. Something is missing here.

Continuous run or intermittant shut-off solenoid's are quite common.