MARMC Leads First-Time Turbocharger Change Out Aboard USS Mesa Verde

Mid-Atlantic Regional Maintenance Center (MARMC) fleet diesel engine inspectors (DEI) recently led emergent repairs aboard USS Mesa Verde (LPD 19), completing an unprecedented turbocharger change out on one of the ship’s main propulsion diesel engines in seven days.

It is the first time a turbocharger change out has been conducted aboard a San Antonio-class amphibious transport ship with no impact to the structure of the ship.

“Typically, this repair requires you to cut a hole in the hull to remove the turbocharger from the space,” said MARMC Fleet Diesel Engine Inspector Dave Alexander. “We were able to disassemble the turbocharger aboard the ship and rig the parts out individually.”

“We’ve expanded MARMC’s capacity and capability by doing something we don’t normally do,” said MARMC Diesel Engines Branch Head Pete Verdeschi. “Having executed this aboard a dock landing ship (LSD) and LPD-class ship, we’re now able to go all over the world and do this - saving the Navy money and valuable time.”

The change out was a team effort that included: the Mesa Verde crew, MARMC’s gas turbines and engine controls branch, and the rigging work center and diesel shop. Mesa Verde successfully completed full power runs at sea with the newly installed turbocharger.

“It always feels good learning something new and proving that you can do something you haven’t done before,” said MARMC Fleet Diesel Inspector Senior Chief Engineman Bret Swift. “Whenever you can set a new precedent that advances your capability and gives you the opportunity to train Sailors in the process, it’s a benefit to the fleet.”

MARMC, a filed activity under Naval Sea Systems Command (NAVSEA), provides surface ship maintenance, management and oversight of private sector maintenance and fleet technical assistance to ships in the Mid-Atlantic region of the United States and provides support to the fifth and sixth Fleet Area of Responsibilities. They are also responsible for the floating dry-dock Dynamic (AFDL-6).