Overheated my Perkins! What damages?

[dlockhart]

One other sorta important thing to note: If the engine overheated too much or for too long I've seen them start to burn a little or a little more oil afterwards although everything else seems to work fine or maybe just a little harder to start than usual. What has happened in this case is the heat was sufficient to take some of the tension out of the piston rings and there is really only one solution.

[grantmc]

Originally Posted by skwanderer

I've creating a checklist for departure so I don't have to think:
...
Any other items to add?

I also use checklists. Although I just have the really important basics. And I have two, one for when I arrive at the boat and the other when it's time to lock up and go home.

My leave the boat list include 'remember keys and phone'.

[meirriba]

Originally Posted by grantmc

I also use checklists. Although I just have the really important basics. And I have two, one for when I arrive at the boat and the other when it's time to lock up and go home.

My leave the boat list include 'remember keys and phone'.

The list is fine for day sailing. For a cruise you would need a more comprehensive one.
Anyway, you may consider a crew brief to your list (unless you single hand...), and:
Weather forecast

[Cheechako]

Adding the alarm is easy and well worth it. It's easy to forget about looking when motoring for hours.

[waterman46]

Good list you made of items to check before leaving dock. Im sure you will get many additions. I would add it is good to look at engine closely soon after you start it and while at dock. Look for water or fuel leaks.
And while you are still tied up, test forward and reverse gear.

[lifeofreilly57]

A quick check is for water in the oil, which will make it look a cloudy tan color and foamy, or oil in the closed loop water. Either one will show evidence of a head gasket failure.