The Adlard Coles Book of Diesel Engines is aimed at boatowners rather than experienced mechanics. In clear, jargon-free English, it explains how a diesel engine works, and how to care for it.

Melanie Bartlett explains how the engine uses simple processes to covert fuel to power, and then looks at the various sub-systems that allow those processes to take place. She also advises on tools, winterizing and provides hints, tips and helpful fault-finding tables. Systems covered include: fuel, air, cooling, oil, electrical, propeller and transmission and control.

This fifth edition has been thoroughly updated and illustrated with new full-color photos and diagrams. In particular, the Common Rail Injection System is covered, which governs how the fuel system is constructed, combined with the use of electronics (as opposed to mechanics) to control it thereby meeting the need for cleaner, greener engines to meet emissions regulations.