[C320-list] Return of the Freshwater leak...

[warren updike]

Re: The Perkins heat exchanger.  I've done this 2 or 3 times and don't think
it's a bad job.  I put a permanent hose on the coolant petcock on the stbd
side of the engine block above and slightly fwd of the oil filter.  Take the
coolant cap off, then drain out enough coolant into a bucket (I use a 1-qt
container to transfer the coolant to a bucket,) until you no longer see
coolant in the heat exchanger. Now remove the cover on the front of the heat
exchanger. Don't be surprised if you find a few impeller blades in there.
Now the heat exchanger cylinder will/should pull out. The tubes in the
cylinder should be clean.  I used a wood dowel to insure the tubes are
clear.  I think I've heard to use a metal rod of appropriate diameter to
clear the tubes. If mine were fouled, I might look into a local auto
radiator service company to get them cleaned.  On reassembly, be sure to
check the hoses and clamps. It's best to replace all clamps.  Also, check
the anti-siphon valve in the line.  Refill the coolant and you are done.

As a routine maintenance item, I'm draining about two qts. of coolant and
replacing with new each year. That seems to be enough to keep the coolant
clean.

Warren & Pattie Updike
Catalina 320, #62, "Warr De Mar"
Middle River, Chesapeake Bay



-----Original Message-----
From: Bernie Garrett [mailto:berniegarrett at telus.net] 
Sent: Monday, December 01, 2008 11:20 PM
To: c320-list at lists.catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] Return of the Freshwater leak...

Hi folks,

 

Think I have found the culprit! I have a very poor seal on the cockpit
emergency tiller deck plate cover, and water seems to be getting in there
and the trickling down under the rear berths and into the bilge. It does
rain "a tad" here and that seems to be where it is getting in. Water heater
is a year old and so far seems not to have suffered the usual overflow leak
issues, but think I'll keep an eye on it. Thanks a million for the helpful
advice, I also plan to do a careful overall inspection of those other
sources too in my quest to dry out the boat.

 

Also anyone ever drained the Perkins fresh water coolant system. I am
pondering this as I don't know when it was last done, and I am also thinking
of inspecting the heat exchanger. Everyone I have spoken too says it is a
majorly messy job L

 

Happy Sailing all! 
Bernie 
_________________________________________________ 
Antares

Hull #88

Point Roberts, WA