Manifold cracked in camber..

[stunod]

Hi,<br /><br />Well I found out why I was loosing 1/2 gal of anti freeze every 2 weeks of running the boat.<br /><br />I had to replace the manifold and riser. There was a big crack inside the camber. All though the riser was fine, 470 merc now sell them both as a kit.<br /><br />Question: Was the anti freeze going into the pistons ? The oil is very clean, no color change other than the golden color of oil.<br /><br />Question 2: Was the engine in danger of damage..if so...how?<br /><br />Thanks,<br />Lou

 

[Trent]

Re: Manifold cracked in camber..

Most likely yes.. <br /><br />If enough water gets into the cylinder at shut (or running if its enough water) down and then you try a re-start of engine you can get a "hydrolic lock". This lock can break pistons, bend rods and a few other things.

 

[Walter]

Re: Manifold cracked in camber..

I might also add that antifreeze can cause more severe damage to bearings etc. than plain water. Neither is good...antifreeze is worse. However, I'd sure suspect you'd see evidence of that much coolant going into the engine...by way of discolored engine oil or at the very least condensation & some brown gooey junk on/around the inside of the valve cover & oil fill cap.<br /><br />If you're convinced you've solved the problem by replacing the manifold...all I can suggest is that you change the oil and filter an extra time or two during the next 10 hours or so of operation. Closely monitor the coolant level...keep your fingers crossed....and hope for the best! Time will tell whether your engine sustained any substantial damage. The only way to know for sure is to begin opening it up...and I don't see the value of doing so at this point.<br /><br />Good luck!<br /><br />Walt

 

[flashback]

Re: Manifold cracked in camber..

may want to flush the motor out with some diesel fuel mixed with the oil, put a quart of diesel in with the present oil and run the engine at 1500 rpm for about 5 minutes, no more. then drain and refill with fresh oil. run 5 minutes and drain, then refill with fresh oil.....