Can run a 4.3 Merc without the alternator belt?

[Superjetjim]

Hi looking to test my 4.3 tomorrow out of the boat on a test stand. Is it OK to run it without the belt attached (I have the single belt connecting alternator, power steering pump to flywheel and water pump)? Reason I ask is the power steering reservoir is drained and I didn’t want to run it dry.

Thanks

James

 

[Chris1956]

Sure until it overheats or drains the battery. Were you planning on connecting it to a water supply? No need for that w/o the belt.

Why not connect a PS hose to the input and output and add some PS fluid?

 

[alldodge]

Just for a very short time, anything longer as Chris said it can over heat

If you want to run it with the PS, connect the in and out lines together. Fill with fluid and can run all day. No pressure will build, fluid just circulates

 

[Superjetjim]

Thanks, the thread part I need is on the boat which is a long way from me, otherwise that would have been ideal.

 

[Superjetjim]

Would the power steering pump be OK to run without fluid for a couple of mins?

 

[alldodge]

Would the power steering pump be OK to run without fluid for a couple of mins?

I wouldn't do it

Take the pump to the auto parts store and see if they have a fitting that will work

 

[Bondo]

Ayuh,..... I think it's 3/8" inverted flare,.... oughta be on the shelf at an auto parts store,...... same as some brake lines,.....

 

[Scott Danforth]

Buy a section of 3/8 brake line and a section of hose with a few zip ties. Fill pump with oil

 

[Scott06]

Would the power steering pump be OK to run without fluid for a couple of mins?

Wouldn’t do it either they are are normal flare fittings merc sells a fitting that is a coupling goes from supply to return side flare fittings (they are different sizes) off the steering cylinder. This is how they ship their bobtail engines.
all you need to do is take a female flare fitting off the supply side and return back the the return line. Use a brake line hose what ever it will not be under pressure just returning to the reservoir

 

[achris]

... my 4.3 ...

James,

Mercruiser 4.3 comes in more flavours than ice-cream, each with different properties and characteristics. What works for one doesn't for another. It's helpful to add the model, year and serial number to the first post of each and every thread you start (and any other relevent information, like here, 'serpentine belt'). Like all the other 'regulars' here, I read dozens of threads A DAY and to try to keep track of who owns what is quite impossible. So help us to help you by reminding us oldies what ya got....

Cheers.