[C320-list] C320-list Digest, Vol 3551, Issue 2

[jackbrennan]

Bob:
When you're deciding what to do, talk to the mechanic more about the purpose of the flush.

Saltwater only goes through the pump and the heat exchanger. When the diesel is running, hundreds of gallons an hour get pumped through there.

So it's unlikely anything is going to get stuck in there for long, except a piece of the impeller. 

The mechanic is probably recommending the flush to reduce salt deposits that can accumulate. I haven't seen that happen on my boats, but it's possible.

If that happens, you will notice because the engine temperature will rise as the water flow is blocked.

The solution then is to open the heat exchanger and clean the chambers, then put new gaskets on.

This would not be high on my list of worries about what could go wrong with the diesel. Hoses, belts, impellers and fuel pumps are a more common concern.
Jack Brennan
Sonas 1998 Catalina 320
Tierra Verde, Fl.
Dolphin Cruising Club of Tampa Bay