i have a '98 four winns 200 horizon, with a volva penta V-8 5.0 GL, 220 HP with a cobra SX lower unit. it has ingested water into both sides of the motor on two occasions within the last several outtings. the first time it was blamed on the lanyard coming off at 40MPH or so (not sure of this event occuring though).<br /><br />on the last outing i trolled for a couple of hours, then brought the boat to plane for five minutes or so, then idled down and slowly drove into the dock (1/4 mile or so) and put the boat on the hoist with no engine problems. on the next morning i could not get it started and pulled a spark plug to fing water in the cylinders.<br /><br />both occasions resulted in starter problems. the mechanics cannot come up with anything. many questioned me regarding my driving habits and i have babied this boat terribly, mostly because of lack of confidence pursuant to the problems.<br /><br />does anybody have any suggestions on what to look for or the cause of this problem? my mechanic indicates that it is not cracks in the manifold, although he has not bench tested it as he thinks that would only allow water to one side. i cannot believe it is my driving habits. any help or suggestions on diagnosing this problem? the mechanic took the boat out for an hour and tried to get it to ingest water and couldn't. now on hold for a return call from OMC volva-penta tech support.<br /><br />thank you so much for any and all input,<br /><br />paul
