opinions on converting to closed cooling

[garycinn]

I am considering putting closed cooling on my '01 4.3L TBI Merc/Alpha. Freshwater use, currently with 175 hours.<br /><br />I am thinking that for $500 the San Juan Engineering half-systems would be worth it to extend the life of the engine. It would also be two less drain plugs to deal with for early/late season.<br /><br />Since I have one piece Merc manifolds/risers/exhaust, I can't go to a full system.<br /><br />Any opinions or cautions?<br /><br />Thanks.

 

[Don S]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

While I have heard some say that the engine will self distruct within one season, I have never found it to be true. I know of many that have done it with no problem, the only problem that can occure (and does occasionally) is the heat exchanger will clog up with the rust and corrosion that is in the raw water cooled block. When it does you can't really get the heat exchanger cleaned out again, and it usually has to be replaced. It works out to this-----<br /><br />Do You Feel Lucky??????

 

[Boomyal]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

Don, undoubtedly has a bit of experience, but I think that it is the best thing you can do for your engine. San Juan systems are made of excellent material and they would be easy to clean if that were ever necessary. Considering you are primarily using your boat in fresh water, you'll probably never have to do any thing to it but change the coolant every 3 years.<br /><br />The advantages, beyond your list, is that you can run a 180 deg thermostat which is better for combustion efficiency. You don't have cold water entering the motor, causing excessive expansion and contraction of the cylinder walls (lots of taper) plus if your ever run in shallow water, you'll never pump your block full of sand. I say, go for it. That is what I run.<br /><br />

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

How about an updated picture boomyal, shouldn't it all be RED.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[Boomyal]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

 

[Dunaruna]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

I'm sorry its gone pear shaped on ya, but you can't leave it at that, just gotta tell us - please.<br /><br />Maybe if ya grab a beer and start a new thread it might help to unload, then I can tell you about al of my recent stuffups - man have I blown some money recently.<br /><br />Aldo

 

[Boomyal]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

 

[Boomyal]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

 

[WillyBWright]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

I have yet to see a freshwater motor fail due to rusting away except in really extreme cases. Most last decades. You are far more likey to end that motor's life with a wide variety of other means. Rust would be near the bottom of the list. You would be more likely to cook the motor with rust clogging the passages on the heat exchanger. After 4 seasons on the water already, I'd stay with what you have.

 

[qystan]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

Just to add to Billy's post. <br /><br />Over here all engines are in saltwater, there are no closed cooling on any other the early engines and most are still around. The mechs mentioed that the block is good, they usually see cracked heads but little block failures.<br /><br />Mine's a 1989 5.7.

 

[KaGee]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

Would tend to agree with Willy.<br /><br />Spend the 5 bills on something else. <br /><br />If the money is burning a hole in ya pocket, and don't know what to do, there's always the Kagee Exhaust Manifold and Riser fund!

 

[pike hunter]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

I think for that kind of money I will installe that kit on the next season specially for the usage I'm doing; mostly fishing in fresh water, that means 3 more months on the water enjoying my boating and being not afraid of crack in my block (antifreeze).

 

[Don S]

Re: opinions on converting to closed cooling

Originally posted by pike hunter:<br /> that means 3 more months on the water enjoying my boating and being not afraid of crack in my block (antifreeze).

You may not crack the block, but don't forget about the manifolds, risers. If you don't drain them and they crack, the water goes in the engine and you still loose the engine.