Engine flush or...

06Rinker270

I damaged the water inlet on my transom for what I thought was a fresh water pickup for shore water.  Never use it as I always have my fresh water tank full.  Having a look further I see this runs into my engine.  Is this a fresh water flush for my engine? Thanks for the help!

Dream_Inn

That is certainly what it looks like.  Seem like it was added on to your boat by the PO.  If you are never going to use it, you may just want to remove.  It could cause problems at some point by either letting raw water leak or allow air to enter, loosing prime.

06Rinker270

Thanks John.  Well I think I should use it right?  I need to investigate now how it works.  I dont see a valve.  To be honest feel I feel a bit silly that I just found this.  The marine surveyor told me it was fresh water pick up for the fresh water system so I never thought twice. 

I am going to replace the inlet as I think it might be sucking in air.  My mechanic just put a plug on it for now since he told me the same thing, its sucking in air. 

aero3113

There might be a check valve that will let water in when you flush the engine, could that be hanging up and sucking in air?

06Rinker270

Im not sure it actually was sucking in air but the tech said it was possible.  If it was, would I be able to tell like idling rough or overheating?  Ill try and get a picture of the hose connection.  

reneechris14

Looks like a check valve where it Ts in to the red hose. Read up on the flush system think motor  must be running when water is turned on?

Dream_Inn

Sucking in air would just cause overheating, especially when on plane.  If you can, get a good close-up picture of what is used at the "T" area.  If it is just a cheap plastic "T", you need to upgrade it if you want to use it.  It may also be a valve that isn't rated for any heat (being close to engine, you may want to watch).  I'm also surprised you didn't have any issues with winterizing, unless they used it for that purpose.  But, you still want to run pink thru the drive as well.

Sorry if I'm on a rant, this was something I almost did on my 310 and decided the risk was not worth it.

06Rinker270

Not a rant, all good to consider.  I have read all the pros and cons.  Ill get a picture of it.  Maybe Ill just replace for good measure.  The previous owner that would have installed it wouldnt cut any corners so Im sure its a proper fitting but ill double check. 

What would the issues with winterizing be?

reneechris14

Running  pressured water tought pump will fill the riser(possibly) if exhaust is not there to push it out. Start motor turn on water and flush all good.

Michael T

.......same with your generator. If not careful you can flood it.

06Rinker270

Thanks for the tips.  How long do I run it for?

Dream_Inn

I've seen those that actually do it, run for 5 minutes at idle.

06Rinker270

Does this look like a check valve?

aero3113

Hard to tell if it’s a check valve or a filter?? Take the top hose off, it looks like the top of it will screw off. 

Dream_Inn

I agree with Aero, take top hose off and unscrew.  To me, it looks too small to be a filter.  Possibly check valve.

aero3113

It does look dirty, possibly hanging up the check valve?

06Rinker270

Thanks guys.  Going to have a look today and see.  Ill report back.

aero3113

@06Rinker270 , any update on this?