3288 Hino Pre-heats

[Wayne3288]

how important is it that the Hino diesel pre-heat system works?

[Wayne3288]

Okay - new to this site - and new to a diesel powered boat. I have a 1989 Bayliner 3288 and the Pre-heat system does not work. Fires right up. Is it important that I get the pre-heat system working? I live in Western Washington where temps rarely get down to freezing.

[Pcpete]

It depends on where your boat is. If you are using your boat where and when it’s under 30 degrees F or so. Above that, a well tuned diesel will fire in a few seconds. If you are having starting troubles, adjusting the valves and checking the timing would be at the top of my list then I’d have the injectors rebuilt before going after the lift pump.
Bottom line; IMO, no it doesn’t need to be operational. However, I’m the type that if there’s an item on the boat, it's got to be operational.

[johnrupp]

I have the same year boat and engines. The Hino manual recommends using pre heat when ambient temp is below 14 F. I've never used mine engines start fine even in the low 20s.

[dlanor80]

Had my 3288 with twin Hinos (150 Hp) and never used the preheat in Vancouver, BC

[EAGLE_III]

I live in Victoria BC and I have never used the preheat option when starting the motors. I have 3288 with 150 hinos. I believe the engine surveyor said it was not necessary. Just my 2 cents