KAIKOHE - New Hokianga Harbour ferry Kohu Ra Tuarua is expected to have its engine reinstalled this week after it failed last month and was sent back to suppliers in Auckland for a $35,000 repair job.
The four-engined vehicular and passenger ferry, owned by the Far North District Council, has been operating with only two engines in moderate sea and weather conditions but needs four to sail in poor harbour conditions.
It cannot sail with three engines because of thrust difficulties.
Welding slag found in the ferry's water cooling system is believed to have caused the engine to fail and checks will soon be made for damage to the vessel's other three engines because all share the same cooling system.
The council says the cross-harbour service, from Rawene to Kohukohu, may have to be suspended if other engines are found to be damaged and require removal and repair.
Sailings may also be curtailed in adverse weather while the ferry is running on only two engines.
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