10 hours to install a freshwater cooling kit

fastlearner

Recruit
Joined
Apr 21, 2008
Messages
4
Getting ready for the new boating season, and since my boat (2006 Sea Ray 185 V-6) sits at the dock for 6 months in saltwater, I decided to install a full system freshwater cooling kit.

Now for the embarrasing part (I preface this by saying I considered myself an accomplished DIY car mechanic): It took me 10 hours to install - after the instructions said 1-4 hours! Even after having done one now, I bet it would still take me close to 6-8 hours the second time. Has anyone ever really ever installed such a kit in 1-2 hours?
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: 10 hours to install a freshwater cooling kit

If the engine is brand new and sitting on a pallet in the middle of the floor, it can be done in 1-2 hours. Assuming you have done one before.
Fact is, even most techs seldom install 2 of the same kind before the cooling system changes, the engine changes in how things will be mounted or the boat is way different and access is different.
 

Scout Sport Fish

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 23, 2007
Messages
197
Re: 10 hours to install a freshwater cooling kit

I always double what estimated time is. Triple if I havent done it before or if every other part is rusted.
Like Don said. That estimated time is with optimal conditions, with everything known in advance and easy to get to and Murphys law not applied.
 

bassboy1

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Jun 23, 2006
Messages
1,884
Re: 10 hours to install a freshwater cooling kit

I am finding it a bit ironic that your handle is fastlearner....
 
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