Of Risers and Manifolds and Used Boats.

[Philster]

I bought my Scarab after a survey in which there were two sea trials and the Scarab was at the surveyor's own boat yard for two weeks.

I cannot tell you how old the risers/manifolds are. The surveyor made no mention to replace them. The boat was used in fresh and salt water and rack stored its whole life.

I used the Scarab twice in the fall. No issues, but I am inclined to replace them. A buddy of mine likes the deal I got with my boat and is now looking for a larger boat with an I/O. I told him that he needs to budget for a survey (or more than one) and needs to plan/budget on replacing risers/manifolds in all cases.

Maybe I am too far to the extreme. If one buys a used I/O, should one budget for risers/manifolds in all cases? How else can you guarantee their condition?

To me, the ultimate engine risk is hyrdolocking the engine because water got into the combustion chamber(s).

So... what do the experts say? Does anyone pull and inspect the goods? Just replace? Shrug your shoulders and go about life because the surveyor didn't ring them up as an issue?

 

[HT32BSX115]

Re: Of Risers and Manifolds and Used Boats.

The boat was used in fresh and salt water and rack stored its whole life.

Howdy,

You should remove the risers, inspect and (at least) buy new riser gaskets for the re-installation.......

You MUST know where you "stand" on them so you can make an educated guess on when to replace them on any boat used regularly in salt water.

If you wait too long, you'll be replacing them along with the engine.....



Regards,


Rick

 

[83Evinrude]

Re: Of Risers and Manifolds and Used Boats.

I've heard 15-20 years lifespan in fresh water, and probably more like 5 in salt.

 

[Philster]

Re: Of Risers and Manifolds and Used Boats.

You guys are echoing my thinking exactly. It's a 1996 engine/boat/etc. The manis/risers could be original or 3 years old.

I am inclined to replace the manis and risers (gaskets of course, too). I swear, I've said this to Mercruiser techs who didn't agree with me.

It's not good to go around questioning one's own sanity. That's why I come to iboats. Well that and the fact that drugs are expensive.

I have ZERO time so I am gonna suck it up and drop 2 grand to get it done. I have my brain wrapped around the cost versus risk, and it has to be done.

:redface: