Glala was originally fitted with a pair of Thornycroft 50hp paraffin engines, these would have required a lot of attention and by the 1930s they would have been obsolete. In 1939 AEC fitted two of their diesel engines, one six cylinder and the other four.

In 1985 Glala was fitted with a pair of Gardner 6LXBs, made in Manchester. They are ex-automotive engines converted for marine use. One was built in 1970 and the other in 1971. The Gardner 6LXB is now a classic marine engine. These engines can achieve 40% thermal efficiency, which is very high, and have a reputation for exceptional reliability. Although they are no longer manufactured spare parts are still available from old stock. The gearboxes are made by Self Changing Gears Ltd of Coventry.

The engines were in poor condition, they had cracked cylinder heads and blocks. They have been rebuilt by Gardner Enthusiast and will produce 150hp at 1650rpm. When they are reinstalled the exhaust and cooling systems will be updated and there will be new electrics.

Before being rebuilt:

Rebuilt, awaiting installation: