Small piece of plastic drain plug went into exhaust manifold

[ang onello]

Was winterizing engine 5.7 mercruiser when the blue drain plug broke off as i was putting back in... I was trying to remove the tread part that was still in there out with a screw in the center when it ended up being pushed into the exhaust manifold. i took off the tee fitting (with the hose and drain plug) on the bottom of the manifold but could not find it? Looking for some insight if this will just blow out when i start the engine? or get stuck in the riser and cause possible over heating issue ? Any thoughts appreciated- Thank you

 

[Searay205]

I don't see how it can hurt anything, probably get flushed out when running in the water.

 

[Scott Danforth]

here is what will most likely happen

the small part may get wedged in the manifold or riser, upon shut-down, the part may melt a bit, making itself smaller. then it will get washed further out the system until its stuck in the discharge of the elbow. upon shut down it will most likely melt into smaller pieces and get washed out the prop.

 

[Scott06]

Just keep an eye out that that manifold doesnt run how next year. …

 

[zellerj]

Some are exchanging the blue plastic to the SS versions offered by Hardin Marine:

Stainless Steel Sea Pump Drain Plugs - Mercruiser 22-806608A02 (5 Pack) - Hardin Marine

Stainless Steel Sea Pump Drain Plugs - Mercruiser 22-806608A02 / 8M2000874 (5 Pack)

www.hardin-marine.com