hydro-lock on '98 four winns

[bush]

i reposted this from yesterday as i was looking for more input, thanks to all for any input:<br /><br />i have a '98 four winns 200 horizon, with a volva penta V-8 5.0 GL, 220 HP with a cobra SX lower unit. it has ingested water into both sides of the motor on two occasions within the last several outtings. the first time it was blamed on the lanyard coming off at 40MPH or so (not sure of this event occuring though).<br /><br />on the last outing i trolled for a couple of hours, then brought the boat to plane for five minutes or so, then idled down and slowly drove into the dock (1/4 mile or so) and put the boat on the hoist with no engine problems. on the next morning i could not get it started and pulled a spark plug to find water in the cylinders.<br /><br />both occasions resulted in starter problems. the mechanics cannot come up with anything. many questioned me regarding my driving habits and i have babied this boat terribly, mostly because of lack of confidence pursuant to the problems.<br /><br />inbetween problems, the boat runs just fine.<br /><br />does anybody have any suggestions on what to look for or the cause of this problem? my mechanic indicates that it is not cracks in the manifold, although he has not bench tested it as he thinks that would only allow water to one side. i cannot believe it is my driving habits. any help or suggestions on diagnosing this problem? the mechanic took the boat out for an hour and tried to get it to ingest water and couldn't. now on hold for a return call from OMC volva-penta tech support.<br /><br />thank you so much for any and all input,<br /><br />paul

 

[Trent]

Re: hydro-lock on '98 four winns

I would pressure check both the manafolds and risers. While their apart check the shutters.<br /><br />This a saltwater boat?

 

[DaveM]

Re: hydro-lock on '98 four winns

Make sure the idle is set at the correct RPMs. Did you experience any hard starts, or run-on (dieseling)? You say that in between problems the boat runs fine. Does fine mean fine, or does fine mean perfect?

 

[Gene70]

Re: hydro-lock on '98 four winns

Your problem is manifolds. Remove the manifolds and risers. Blank off the manifolds with plate and gaskets. Connect water to the front water connections. Test it around 60 psi. Water check both manifolds. If you need more help call me at 1-800-949-2189

 

[drizler]

Re: hydro-lock on '98 four winns

Probably manifolds or more likely the gaskets. Which side is the water filled cyls on, thats the offending culpret. If its a salt water machine expect risers and or manifold perforation someplace possibly. Probably have to remove and fill on bench with gasoline overnight on bench to check for seepage. Look at and remove the gasket(s) very carefully so you or mech can see signs of leakage. My mercruiser manual states also that by instantly going to idle/ instant shutdown from very fast cruise can suck water into the cyls as well. If thats the case though it will instantly Take a look at boatdoctor.com and ask them. Its a pretty common problem you will find.