Engine Re-Assembly Question

rucaradio

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 23, 2008
Messages
184
I've got a VP 131D with a 275 leg. I'm in the middle of a restore (deck/stringers/transom), and with the motor on a stand in the garage I'm going thru a few systems and fixing problems.

The biggest issue with the motor is the sea water cooling system. Every seal in the system leaked, so I've purchased new O-rings and gaskets for the entire deal (along with a thermostat kit).

The PO used Red Permatex to seal EVERYTHING. I've spent HOURS cleaning it off.

The question, should I use some sort of ATV/permatex (not the red stuff) when I put everything together, or are the o-rings good enough to stop leaks?
 

mkast

Lieutenant Commander
Joined
Nov 6, 2002
Messages
1,934
Re: Engine Re-Assembly Question

Ensure the mating surfaces are clean and flat. Some individuals around here suggest using a product called Permatex Aviation Sealant.
 

dontask

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Apr 5, 2009
Messages
177
Re: Engine Re-Assembly Question

What does the manual call for?
 

rucaradio

Petty Officer 2nd Class
Joined
Aug 23, 2008
Messages
184
Re: Engine Re-Assembly Question

The manual doesn't say anything about sealant. At the factory only o-rings were used. The previous owner was apparently too lazy and cheap (it cost me about $15 for all the coolant system seals) to replace leaking connections and just used the red ATV.

Some pieces (like the thermostat gooseneck) are metal to metal, other connections are plastic to plastic. I think I'm just going to clean the surfaces real good and slap everything together dry. Once I get everything back in the boat if it leaks then I'll throw some sealant in around.
 
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