Mid Section water leak

[Kellyz2]

Hi, I have a 1985 70HP which has developed a pretty significant water leak in the mid section.

On a recent outing,I noticed steam coming from around the exhaust ports. Pulled the boat, and when flushing the engine noticed what seems to be a major leak of water from the lower exhaust housing in front of and around the lower mount bracket covers.

The outer exhaust housing was also hot, to the point that if I sprayed water on it, it would steam.

Any ideas on what would cause the leakin that area?
Based on the exhaust housing being as hot as it was, it seems like something is amiss in the cooling cycle.

Will I be doing serious damage if I continue to use the engine?

Thanks in advance. This formum has always provided great advice!
Kelly

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Mid Section water leak

I would drop the lower unit and have a look see. The pump may have gone south. Don't run it again until you find what the problem is....

 

[Kellyz2]

Re: Mid Section water leak

Thanks Rick,
I was planning to replace the water pump at the end of the season as it is about 3 years old. I do get a lot of water out of the pee hole, both when running and on the muffs. Will that happen if the water pump is bad? Engine ran well for an extended time on the last trip. Did not get any warning horns and the powerhead did not feel like it was over heated. Seems like an issue only in the mid section.

Thanks again,

Kelly

 

[F_R]

Re: Mid Section water leak

A certain amount of water from the lower mount area is normal. It is water that is escaping from the hole in the water pump housing that the drive shaft goes through. It is normal and there are drain holes provided for that reason....that is what you are seeing.

However: You are overheating which indicates a severly worn water pump. The severely worn water pump would also account for more than a normal amount of water escaping around the shaft....the water that you are questioning. You should check the pump before running it any more and taking a chance of messing up the motor.

 

[rickdb1boat]

Re: Mid Section water leak

Also, I would pull the thermostat and have a look at it. It may be sticking shut..