I/O engine submerged due to plug out

[amzabelle]

I keep me boat in a dry slip and the marina workers put my boat in with a forklift when I need it. Well They put it in without my plug and the boat filled with salt water for about 30 min. The water submerged the lower half of my engine including the starter and alternator. At the time my battery was disconnected. They pulled the boat back out of the water, drained it and started the engine. It ran okay at this time. We then used the boat for about two hours and it ran okay. I have a 1971 I/O Chevy 4 cyl. engine with Mercruiser (they tell me it is the same engine previously used in the Chevette cars). It appears that no water got into the oil. What parts should I have replaced and should I be concerned about the corrosion from the saltwater over time.

 

[Walter]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

I'm assuming you don't have to pay for any of this...so there's no reason EVERYTHING compromised due to their negligence should not be replaced. This would include the outdrive's gimbal bearing & u-joints as well as the alternator and starter. Just because a component is working ok now doesn't mean it will be in the near future.<br /><br />Sorry that happened...<br /><br />Walt

 

[amzabelle]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

Unfortunately, the marina is not willing to replace anything except the starter without a fight. They are going to clean and check the trim mechinism, the alternator and clean and paint some exposed parts of the engine. I am also concerned about the corrosion of the wiring. What do feel is most likely to give me problems over time? Thanks for your first reply and insight.

 

[Walter]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

Water can enter the u-joint bellows when the bilge is flooded as you've described. Even fresh water will take out the gimbal bearing and u-joints eventually...salt water is certain to do so. The same holds true with the wiring...salt water is much more corrosive than fresh. You have every reason to be concerned about any electrical circuits that were submerged.<br /><br />Call a reputable MerCruiser repair shop (not the guys who almost sunk your boat), and without going into detail about WHO did it..just tell them how severely your bilge was flooded and ask for a written quote stating what repairs they recommend. Tell them all of your concerns...and that you want it fixed right!! (I can almost see the service manager salivating) Once you have this quote...take it to the marina owners and demand they repair your boat properly. If they still refuse, call an attorney and provide him with a copy of the quote. Once you threaten legal action...I'll bet the marina owners change their minds.<br /><br />As I see it...the marina is clearly at fault here. Don't give up the ship without a fight!<br /><br />Walt

 

[Trent]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

Ditto........What Mr. Walter said!!

 

[chiefmike58]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

I'll third that!

 

[gustavo_m]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

I had my boat submerged in salt water and luckly (after cleaning and spraying all parts) I only replaced the alternator and starter, plus I had to wire brush all electrical contacts because of corrosion.<br />there is alot of work and follow up.<br /><br />Good luck!

 

[flashback]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

for the price you pay for dry stack storage, they should buy you a new boat.. just my thoughts...

 

[f_inscreenname]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

Better look for a new marina what ever you do. There is going to be some bad feelings. That will not be any fun every time you go to get your boat or what I should have said when you are waiting for them to get your boat down.

 

[sea wolf]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

do u have insurance? if yes, i would put in a claim. the ins. co. may then turn around & go after the marina for damages. they screwed up, they should pay.

 

[Bear]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

Here is a long list for you:<br /> http://marinemechanic.com/site/page108.html <br /><br />Good luck!

 

[Capt Ken]

Re: I/O engine submerged due to plug out

Be careful of what you ask for. The marina is only responsible for damages up to the value of the boat. Being its a 1971 model boat, it may have sentimental value, but low market value. They may hand you a check for several hundred dollars and ask for the title. You can catch more flies with sugar than with vinegar. In 31 years, I doubt this is the first time the boat has had a belly full of water.