Engine Block Life in Salt Water

[Shaun78]

How long will a big block last in salt water? Raw water cooled engine. How long before it rots out?

 

[DHPMARINE]

Re: Engine Block Life in Salt Water

Actually I've never seen a block rust out.Might be possible,but usually manifolds,elbows,rusted tinware kill it first.

DHP

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Engine Block Life in Salt Water

had a couple go 1800hrs,guess avg is 1500

 

[Chris1956]

Re: Engine Block Life in Salt Water

Shaun, I agree with DHP. My '88 Mercruiser's block was OK, but the pan rotted out, the manifolds needed relacement(twice) and the starter, thermostat cover and most other perhiperal parts were on their way out. BTW, when the pan rotted out, I ran the motor w/o oil. That didn't help.

 

[Haut Medoc]

Re: Engine Block Life in Salt Water

That depends on how well you flush it after each use.....
I think 1800 hours is a good estimate.....​