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Exhausting Maintenance Can Be Easier Than You Think
by Dave Parks
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Although boaters typically take great pride in maintaining engines and boat interiors, they often overlook a less glamorous part of the boat that is just as important: the exhaust system. A poorly maintained exhaust system can rob the engine of horsepower, permit excessive noise or cause fire, flooding or even a sinking.
For these reasons, every boater should periodically examine the exhaust system for problems.
Remember that an exhaust system is a generally reliable component of the boat. If it works well upon installation, you can usually count on having years of trouble-free service. However, there are exceptions to this rule.
Trouble can be caused by vibrations that loosen a seal between components, or by a cracked component, usually the result of an engine backfire or a blow from an object. Such damage can allow harmful gases to come into the boat and, if left unchecked, can flood the engine compartment with cooling water.
Since water constantly flows through a wet exhaust system, a leak is usually the first sign of damage. If you spot water in the engine compartment, you should check all parts and connections and replace damaged items immediately.
Checking for leaks and damage should be done on a regular basis, but especially after an engine backfire. This explosive release of gases can easily break seals or crack components.
You can take several preventive measures to lessen the chance of damage to the exhaust system and the engine itself in the course of normal boat operation.
First, the entire exhaust system should be well-supported to prevent damage from vibration. Heavy, water-filled exhaust tubes can easily break loose in rough seas, if they are not properly secured. Also, connections between components should be double-clamped to help prevent the loosening of seals.
Second, the whole exhaust system must be sloped downward to ensure that water never backs up into the engine. A check valve can be installed for extra protection. This is an especially good idea for anglers who quickly power down when a fish strikes, causing water to wash into the exhaust.
For safety's sake, components should be made of heat-resistant and fire-retardant materials. This ensures that if the water pump fails and cooling water is not being injected into the exhaust, damage to the system will be minimized. The components should be built with resins that meet or exceed U.S. Navy and Coast Guard criteria for heat resistance and fire retardance.
When repowering a boat, the owner should make certain the exhaust system is the proper size for the new engine or it will create power-robbing back pressure. Correct size is directly related to engine horsepower: Higher horsepower requires larger components.
Engine type is also a factor: Diesel engines need slightly larger components than similarly sized gasoline engines.
By using these simple guidelines, you can avoid serious problems with your exhaust system and enjoy safer, quieter boating.
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This article first appeared in the August 1, 1996 issue of Sea Magazine. All or parts of the information contained in this article might be outdated. |
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