Fractured Water Jacket & Epoxy

[marshawa1]

Has anyone successfully repaired a cracked block/water jacket by welding and epoxying? I have operated the IO for the last year with a leaking block. Normally it is not a problem as after each use I trailer the boat and pull the rear boat plug which drains all the water that has leaked out of the block. However, next year I plan to keep the boat in the lake for several months and dont want the water remaining in the bilge until it gets high enough for the bilge pump to evacuate it. I am thinking of having it welded and epoxying it however have heard both good and bad comments from heavy equipment construction operators, non boaters.

 

[Pilot954]

Re: Fractured Water Jacket & Epoxy

I have welded many cracked blocks with no problem. As long as they are good cast welders and use the correct rod, i dont see any problems.<br />Happy Boating!!

 

[marshawa1]

Re: Fractured Water Jacket & Epoxy

Thanks Sea Ray Weekender .... being a layman is there any specific I should ask the company who may undertake the work or do I leave it to them and ask what type of warranty/guarantee they offer?

 

[Bondo]

Re: Fractured Water Jacket & Epoxy

Go with Just Epoxy... JB Weld or Whatever......<br />A Good Welder can fix it.....<br />A Bad Welder Will Destroy it.....<br />Epoxy alone will get you by a few years.....

 

[Pilot954]

Re: Fractured Water Jacket & Epoxy

Just use a good welding shop. I prefer one that has it's own building, instead of work out of home/truck welders. The block needs to be completely dry and clean, I would drain the block and leave it open for a couple of weeks. <br />Epoxy works but i prefer to not have to worry about temp. repairs. They always seem to break at the worst possible times, or at least that is my luck. Most welders wont warranty this, but reputable shop will stand behind their work. <br />Happy Boating!!

 

[marshawa1]

Re: Fractured Water Jacket & Epoxy

Thanks for the information I appreciate the timely response. It appears an epoxy fix is not have a long time repair and a weld may be the best option provided I find someone who has a history of undertaking these types of repairs. I think that I may go the later route or at least compare the cost to replacing the block. Thanks again.