Test Tank: How Big?

[jefisherjr]

I have a 94 Mercury 225 hp 3.0 l. How large would a cooling water tank need to be (i.e. gallons, cubic feet) for in-the-driveway maintenance and repairs? Does anybody have any "how to build your own" information on this topic, or is this unrealistic? I'm looking for an alternative to the water muffs so that I can fire it up without disturbing the neighbors, but I don't want it to be a real chore set up.

 

[JB]

Re: Test Tank: How Big?

To really test a 225 you need either a medium size swimming pool or about 1,000 gallons and a test wheel.

If you just want to keep her quiet and cooled for no-load testing there are prop mounted mufflers available for running on muffs.

 

[DJ]

Re: Test Tank: How Big?

I use a prop muffler. As JB said, they keep them quiet but you cannot test under load. Idle only.

No prop engagement.

Don't ask me how I know that.

 

[jefisherjr]

Re: Test Tank: How Big?

Thanks JB and DJ. I'll be looking into that prop muffler. However, I have yet another good reason to install a pool in the back yard.

 

[akwormy]

Re: Test Tank: How Big?

I have a 15hp outboard that I run in my metal trash can all the time - since your's is too big to run in the driveway I'd be willing to trade you motors...I'll even throw in the trash can for free!

(my 50hp jet pumps out any tank I've tried to use in about a second and sends it all the way to the end of the driveway...no choice but to drive around the corner to the boat launch and back that unit in to test n tune!)

 

[j_martin]

Re: Test Tank: How Big?

Thanks JB and DJ. I'll be looking into that prop muffler. However, I have yet another good reason to install a pool in the back yard.

I hope you're kidding.