[oceanmaui]

I was looking to take a course on basic engine repair and maintenance. However, the only courses available in my area are for gas engines, not diesel (as i would like).

I''m just looking to gain a basic knowledge of engines so i can do simple maintainance and simple repairs at sea (in case of emergencies too).

Aside from performance issues, how similar in construction/maintanence are gas and diesel engines?

Would a basic understanding of one allow me to make a decent diagnosis of the other?

And in that light...would automotive engine knowledge be resonably practical towards boat engines?

I figure any knowledge is better than none, but i also don''t want to waste too much time and money.