Major Marine Engine Overhaul & Historic Vessel Restoration
The Motor Yacht “Blue Guitar”, originally built in 1967 at the prestigious Camper & Nicholson’s Shipyard in Cowes, Isle of Wight, is a vessel steeped in rich maritime history. Once owned by the legendary guitarist Eric Clapton, the yacht now resides in the USA under owners who are deeply committed to maintaining its original fitments and classic marine machinery. Powered by twin Gardner 8L3B diesel engines and Gardner 3UC reversing and reduction gearboxes, this historic vessel required highly specialised marine engineering. Thanks to our extensive background in Gardner marine engine repairs, honed through years of servicing maritime vessels, Hickman Engineering was entrusted to take on this major gearbox repair project.
Complex Gearbox Repair & Marine Engine Alignment
Our marine engineers investigated a reported fault on the portside Gardner 3UC gearbox. The unit was completely dismantled, and all defective components were meticulously itemised. Leveraging our extensive supply chain, we procured specialist replacement components and rebuilt the gearbox, conducting rigorous load testing. Following this, we identified that the “Metalastik” rubber mountings on both Gardner 8L3B main engines were highly defective and required immediate replacement. Our team expertly removed all main engine foundation bolts and utilised jacking screws to raise the heavy engines, allowing for the successful installation of new mountings. Both main engines were then precisely re-aligned with their respective propeller shafts.
Specialist Component Overhaul & International Logistics
Our team followed up the gearbox repair with the complete strip-down, overhaul, and re-calibration of the starboard engine’s fuel injection pump assembly. We also refurbished the port engine governor assembly, which included the meticulous renewal of all ball bearings. When both starter motors on the port main engine were found to be defective, the motors were transported back to our Immingham workshop for major repairs, receiving new contactors, copper windings, carbon brushes, armatures, and drive pinions ensuring the yacht was perfectly restored to full seaworthy status.
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We’re up for the challenge! Hickman Engineering prides itself on undertaking works that are considered too challenging for other firms. Whether this is a small project or large we offer a set rate 24/7 coverage which is available to all of our clients. Challenge us to come up with your solution.
