[C320-list] Water lift Muffler

[Mike Ott]

Tony,
If it is the aqua-lift muffler that is leaking you have some options.  If you 
can't see the leak when the engine is running, but know it is coming from under 
the muffler area, you can try re-bedding the screws.  To do this drain the 
muffler through the brass petcock, remove the screws and let it the area dry out 
for a few days.  Take a q-tip dipped in acetone and clean inside the screw 
holes.  Using bedding compound like 3M-5200 to coat the top 1/3 of screws, below 
the head and refasten muffler to the base.  The reason your only coating the top 
of the screws is in case this doesn't work and you need to pull the muffler.  
Let this setup for a few days and give it test.
If it is still leaking your going to have to pull the muffler, not too tough but 
not too easy either due to the strength of the exhaust hose from the wet-elbow 
to the muffler.  Once it is out you can re-glass the flange area which is 
usually where the leak is occurring or have Catalina build you a new one.  My 
experience with Catalina was not good one on this issue because over the years 
the design changed a number of times, and they couldn't find my style in their 
mold inventory.
I ended up re-glassing the flange area and it has held up for over 2 years now.  
The re-glassing was not that tough, although somewhat messy, and the whole cost 
for materials was about $20  (I know Chris, I'll try to write a Mainsheet 
article for you).
I was in the business for a while and did a lot of research trying to find an 
aftermarket replacement, with no luck.  Like most things associated with boats, 
everything is a compromise, and Catalina like the companies I worked for made 
their own mufflers.
Good luck,

Mike Ott
'Amanda Lu'
#508    




________________________________
From: "amshd2 at aol.com" <amshd2 at aol.com>
To: C320-List at Catalina320.com
Sent: Sat, May 4, 2013 11:50:15 PM
Subject: [C320-list] Water lift Muffler


Went to the boat today and started her up from her long winter nap. I dont think 
she wanted to get up because after I shut her down I found about 2 cups of water 
in the eng catch pan.  Looks like it is coming from the muffler.

I know this has been covered here before so I guess its my turn to R/R the 
muffler and explore my options and ask alot of questions should have paid more 
attention before.  What really kills me is how can it just go bad over teh 
winter.

How bad do they leak whne they go bad????  

I think one COA is to send mine to Catalina.  How long is the turn around time. 
Do they just fix mine or is it a new unit.  Any idea on current cost.

Is there anyone that knows where to go and get it fixed around Annapolis.

And I think I have seen where someone was able to by one for an aftermarket 
supplier.

Thanks 

Tony 
#30