I've got a pair of 1984 OMC 1.6L 115 hp Seadrives, Serial Nos. J809J14 and J809634. I bought the boat in 1998, and have fished it about 20 times since, all in saltwater. I flush for 5 minutes with fresh water after each use, but I have not serviced any part of the cooling systems. Cooling systems on both engines seem to be working fine. <br /><br />I want to perform a comprehensive service on the cooling systems before I use it this season. After reviewing my manual, I had a few questions for the pros on this forum:<br /><br />Water pumps:<br />The water pump kit says use Adhesive M on the impeller housing seal and cover grommet. Is there a suitable substitute for Adhesive M at your basic auto parts store? Same question for OMC Gasket Sealing Compound.<br /><br />Thermostats:<br />I called the OMC dealer I usually trade with and asked if there was a thermostat kit. The man who runs the parts counter said there was not, but that he had all the parts I would need. Is there no kit? Should I replace the relief valves when I replace the thermostats?<br /><br />Several posts have stated that it's possible to service the thermostats without removing the powerhead. One post suggested removing the plastic exhaust covers and then loosening the lower engine cover from the exhaust housing to get a little more room for wrench turning. Is this necessary, or just a good idea? Any other tips for getting at those bolts is much appreciated.<br /><br />Cylinder Head Gaskets/Diverters:<br />I've read in some posts that some consider replacement of cylinder head gaskets and water diverters to be in the routine maintenance category. As I've not had any indications of cooling problems, is this something I should do? Should I also replace the cylinder head cover gaskets at the same time?<br /><br />Warning Horn:<br />One of my stock horns has crapped out. The other is o.k., but barely loud enough. Is there a reliable aftermarket horn that will announce itself with authority? Both engines are wired to the one good horn right now. Been thinking about using just one horn and wiring idiot lights into the circuits for each engine. I'd appreciate your thoughts/suggestions.<br /><br />Several of the bolts on both the thermostat housing and cylinder heads are not stainless and are showing corrosion. Are there any issues with replacing steel hardware with stainless on thermostats and cylinder heads? I use an aircraft sealant on other stainless to aluminum fittings to prevent white rust. Seems to work well, but I have not used it anywhere that is subjected to heat such as a powerhead.<br /><br />Lastly, does anyone have any firsthand experience with Salt-Away? Is it worthwhile product?<br /><br />Please let me know if I've overlooked anything. Thanks.<br /><br />Joe F.
