1996/97 Mercruiser 4.3LX Gen+ Serial # oko19762

[gt2003]

I had the boat winterized this year because I didn't have time to do it myself and didn't want to make one HUGE mistake! I was in the boat earlier getting the serial # and noticed where the mechanic had left out the 2 brass/metal plugs from the engine block. I got to looking around and found where those went, one on each side of the engine by the front motor mount.

Now, there are 2 blue plastic plugs that I believe are for the exhaust manifold. But, I've crawled all around in the boat, shined the flashlight etc and can't figure where they go. I've run my hands all along the manifold and still nothing. So, I find the following diagram which I'm going to post the link to since it's not another forum....is that ok?, and it shows the plugs but doesn't really give a good idea where they actually go. Where is that elbow that it shows in this schematic?

http://www.boats.net/parts/search/M...K999999/EXHAUST MANIFOLD (1 PIECE)/parts.html

I'm a ways away from the boat now so I can't run out and look. But, if you can give me an idea of where the elbow is, I'm sure I can find it tomorrow. I really want to get a good idea of how this is all put together and get the correct mercruiser manual ordered so I can do this stuff myself from now on. Thanks in advance for the help, Greg

 

[Don S]

Re: 1996/97 Mercruiser 4.3LX Gen+ Serial # oko19762

EDIT: My reply was on the wrong post, have no idea why, had to have something to do with it taking almost 2 minutes to post

 

[gt2003]

Re: 1996/97 Mercruiser 4.3LX Gen+ Serial # oko19762

Don, I don't understand? What I'm attempting to ask is where is that elbow (#6) in the picture located? The engine is complete with no problems. The marine shop just left the plugs out after winterizing. I'm just trying to find out where the elbow is so I will know where to find the blue plastic plugs next year when I go to winterize it myself. Sorry if I caused confusion the first time.

 

[Don S]

Re: 1996/97 Mercruiser 4.3LX Gen+ Serial # oko19762

The elbow screws into the bottom of the exhaust manifold. The blue plug goes in the bottom of the elbow.
If all else fails, hook up the muffs and start the engine, then look for where the water is coming from.

Your problem is exactly why the plugs should be put back in after draining. then there isn't a search looking for the proper place to put them back.

 

[gt2003]

Re: 1996/97 Mercruiser 4.3LX Gen+ Serial # oko19762

Thanks Don. I'm sure I'll be able to find it tomorrow. I was simply at the mercy of the boat guy this year. I'm planning on winterizing myself from now on. Thanks again, Greg

 

[Alpheus]

Re: 1996/97 Mercruiser 4.3LX Gen+ Serial # oko19762

Here is a link for the manual you need for your engine.
http://www.4shared.com/document/kIQrso3H/Mercruiser_Service_Manual_18_G.htm

Here is a manual for your outdrive...

http://www.4shared.com/document/IqHfWsuP/Mercruiser_Service_Manual_14_A.htm

 

[gt2003]

Re: 1996/97 Mercruiser 4.3LX Gen+ Serial # oko19762

Thanks so much guys. I'm gathering things together now to replace the impeller and remove the prop and grease the spline. The manuals have also helped me find the grease fittings for the lower unit as well as how to grease the steering mechanism. Now, if I can just find one more nice weekend then I'll have the major stuff done before I get the boat ready for spring! Thanks again for all the help.