[C320-list] Repairing Water Muffler

[Walter Schaffer]

Karl, since I couldn't open your attachment on my Mac, and several captains wanted some information on Aqualift muffler, I've just replied to your list email.
My boat is a 1998 320 with Yanmar engine. When I discovered first leak, I pulled muffler and epoxied screw hole near drain. I used epoxy from Lowe's which was supposed to be super and water proof. Still Leaked. I pulled muffler 2nd time, and shipped it to Catalina in Florida. Catalina said they did not have new one to buy, but would fix mine. So, for $90.00 and shipping costs, I sent it to Florida. Got it back, it looked like they did some sealing around screw hole and drain. Installed it in boat and it still leaked... Apparently, Catalina did not pressure test it and missed leaks on outboard side... I then pulled it 3rd time. Took it home and capped one end. Filled it with water and red food coloring and applied some air pressure.. Found two more leaks... Sanded all areas twice. And applied Marine-Tex from West Marine. Then attached a rubber gasket around bottom to eliminate fiberglass on fiberglass and vibration.. It has worked fine... Moral of story
 is, I'm now qualified to remove and install muffler in record time!! I hope this helps your article. Use what you need. Cheers.
Bill Schaffer, Hull 515
Bohemian II, Chesapeake Bay


--- On Sun, 11/16/08, Karl Mielenhausen _/) <c320 at suddenlink.net> wrote:

> From: Karl Mielenhausen _/) <c320 at suddenlink.net>
> Subject: [C320-list] Repairing Water Muffler
> To: "C320IA Discussion List" <C320-List at catalina320.org>
> Date: Sunday, November 16, 2008, 9:44 AM
> I'm preparing a Mainsheet article on repair of the
> Catalina Aqualift muffler. Mine recently developed a crack
> in the underside of the base. Easily removed and repaired. A
> C36 owner assisted me as he had been through the same
> problem, although his cracks were in a different location
> (exposed portion of the base aa well as inside the mounting
> holes). I have also heard of cracks to the hose tube.
> Please send me comments about your experiences.
> 
> If anyone wants to write an article about replacement of
> this muffler with another unit (e.g. Vetus), we'd be
> happy to publish it.
> 
> Thanks....
> 
> --Karl Mielenhausen
> Catalina 320 Hull 690
> New Bern, NC