Does the pitot tube need winterizing?

[poconojoe]

2003 Bayliner 185 Mercruser I/O 4.3 carbed with Alpha 1 Gen 2.
My third winter with the boat. Does my speedometer have a pitot tube? I know there's a connection to the outdrive, but is there water in a tube that can freeze? Does it just drain out when the drive is down?
I've never done anything to it before, but read in a magazine that it should be winterized.
Thanks,
Joe

 

[Scott Danforth]

drains out unless its plugged with mud and crud.

I have never heard of winterizing the pitot tube before.

 

[GA_Boater]

The hose up to the speedo head shouldn't have water in it, just air. And the hose is usually very flexible and expandable, like surgical tubing. It should take some frozen water. If there is water and there are any loops in the hose, you can pull the hose off the speedo and blow through it, out side of the stern, it's vertical and self draining.

 

[poconojoe]

Ok, thanks guys.

 

[Fun Times]

Bear in mind that there's a few cavity holes on the stern drive itself that could become clogged with debris. The following link points out the areas of concern for the alpha one Gen 2. http://boatinfo.no/lib/mercruiser/ma...ser14.html#/28

Here's the older alpha design areas for those in need. http://boatinfo.no/lib/mercruiser/ma...ser6.html#/212