[C320-list] cooling water system //// Some trouble shooting questions and steps

[Rick Sulewski]

Just some thoughts about the cooling issue:

Is there water exiting the exhaust port? If so, then there is no blockage I
expect. It is possible that the heat exchanger could be breached but I
expect that the internal cooling system fluids (antifreeze) would then be
compromised as a result and one then expect that the level of the antifreeze
would reflect a lower level if not dilution.

If you are pumping water out the exhaust port and the overheating is
considerable as like in spit jumping off the surface of the engine block,
then there may be some issues with the internal cooling system and begin
with checking the tension on the fan belt. Next consider check the
thermostat to see if it opening by pulling it out and placing it in a pan of
water to see if it opens before the water boils. 

If you do not have evidence of the engine overheating other than the alarm
or temp gauge going off, it is possible that the gauge and/or alarm system
are malfunctioning.  I once had a pinched temp sender wire that grounded and
indicated that the engine was overheating when it was not.

After checking the items above I would then consider pulling the heat
exchanger.

Rick 
My-Ria 277



-----Original Message-----
From: c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com
[mailto:c320-list-bounces at lists.catalina320.com] On Behalf Of Robert E.
Sloat
Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 5:37 PM
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Subject: Re: [C320-list] cooling water system

Jim-Before tackling heat exchanger removal for clean up, check to see if the

fresh water pump is working.  Even with a good looking impeller, I would 
disconnect the discharge hose from the pump at the exchanger and then have 
someone see if it pumps water into a bucket when you briefly run the engine.

If water is coming out then you have a blockage in the exchanger or severe 
fouling.  Don't run the engine too much or you might damage the lift muffler

since there is no cooling water available.

Bob Sloat
Savannan Hull 894
----- Original Message ----- 
From: "james_delong" <james_delong at bellsouth.net>
To: "List Catalina" <c320-list at catalina320.org>
Sent: Saturday, December 20, 2008 3:01 PM
Subject: [C320-list] cooling water system


Next step please...

My Yanmar overheated the other day and we had to limp in to the dock.

Checked the intake seacock, cleaned the strainer, and hoses to the pump. All

ok. Pulled the pump and checked the impeller. Still in one piece.

I guess the heat exchanger is the next step. What is the process to inspect 
it and what should I look for?

This problem appeared abruptly. Was OK the previous time out, but this last 
time, limited water flow and when I started it today...nothing!

Thanks for all advise!!

Jim #453