Hydrostatic Lock

[four winns 214]

I'm familiar with the mechanics of hydrostatic lock as it relates to airplanes-- specifically, bottom cylinders on round engines filling with oil. I'm fairly new to operating I/O boat engines and want to understand the whys and hows of it on boat.

Besides the mechanical failures that lead to hydrostatic lock, I'd like to know if there are any boat handling or engine operating situations that can lead to hydrostatic lock. I did an archives search, but it didn't fully answer my curiosity.

 

[mylesm260]

Re: Hydrostatic Lock

http://www.boatfix.com/merc/Bullet/01/01_13.pdf

http://forums.iboats.com/showthread.php?t=302814

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: Hydrostatic Lock

If something should break while underway and the boat suddenly slows or stops, the bachwash comes up the exaust pipe into the engine.

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Hydrostatic Lock

Quote:
Originally Posted by Bt Doctur
If something should break while underway and the boat suddenly slows or stops, the bachwash comes up the exaust pipe into the engine.



Not if everything is working as it should.

Agreed, but not everything works like it should, and this does happen. Also, sitting at the beach with the waves pounding the stern, can do it also. Rare, but "possible".

 

[Bondo]

Re: Hydrostatic Lock

I'm familiar with the mechanics of hydrostatic lock as it relates to airplanes-- specifically, bottom cylinders on round engines filling with oil.

Ayuh,... It's known as Hydrolock,... But it's Water on top of the pistons,... Not oil...

Considering your motor is operating Below water level,...
There's various ways it can get In...
I think the boys have the Backwash pretty well Beat to death,....
There's also gasket failures,+ hard part failures that can cause Hydrolock...

 

[TilliamWe]

Re: Hydrostatic Lock

I agree, if things aren't correct ANYTHING can happen. but thats not a reason to be afraid to use the boat or constantly be afraid your doing something wrong.

Oh, absolutely, I agree totally. I ran for two years with no exhaust shutters and never worried for a minute. And I did both things I mentioned, on many occasions!

 

[bigskiohio]

Re: Hydrostatic Lock

my shutters our gone and have never had aproblem yet except in driveway when i ran water with engine not running , i must have a leak at elbow and with no exhaust pressure to keep it out i had water ion top of pistons.