Pike perch

Many thanks Albion and to everyone else who's provided constructive advice, it's been much appreciated. I've made a check list of all the possible problems and solutions suggested and will through it over the next few days and will keep you updated. Until then, take care and thanks once again.

Actually, I'd wouldn't class checking anything once a year as regular...but each to their own! What I mean by regular is at least once a day!

I've not avoided anything Mtb, if you check back on previous comments, you'll note that I've mentioned how I check the weed hatch at regular intervals! The fuel tank is constantly kept near to full as possible to avoid the risk of diesel bug contamination. We are indeed Albion..could this be part of the problem?

The boat was fitted with a new propeller shaft and stern tube bearing last month and I check the weed hatch at regular intervals. After going into reverse (in attempt to clear anything lodged), it glides along smoothly, but as soon as I try to speed her up a little...the problem re-appears. Bizzard....I turn down the stern tube greaser at the end of each days cruising.

Catweasel, to tell you the truth...I haven't a clue what a stern gear is! but I could possibly get a scanned photo of the engine if that would help. Yes, there's plenty of oil in the gearbox and the engine has been regularly maintained.

Junior, thanks for the advice....I joined this forum hoping for help and advice, but if sarcasm and quips directed at newbies are the norm on here, I doubt I will be hanging around.

Many apologies for the scant description....not only am I new to boating, but also to the internet and forums. While I appreciate the help/advice given so far by the members of this group, I'm also taken aback by the apparent childish sarcasm of others! That said, I've listed further information below and any advice would be greatly appreciated...but please no clever quips because they're rather off putting for newbies like me. * Engine is a Vetus M4.14 4 cyl Diesel * The problem occurs whilst in gear * It has a grinding and laboured sound, but when slowed down to a snails pace..it's fine. *We've only just purchased the boat, but the engine is 8 years old (if that's any help. * The temperature of the engine remains normal throughout. Hope that helps. Forgot to add....the engine has only done 750 hours.

When trying to increase speed my engine dies,is anyone able to advise what the problem could be.