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Boat Repair/Water in oil
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Question
I have just traded for a thundercraft citation boat. 4Cyl 3 LTR GMC OMC Cobra I/O 1988. There is water in the oil like a blown head gasket. I spoke with a marine parts expert and he says that the intake/exhaust manifold is probably bad. I know water runs through the intake, but I am having trouble visualizing how a crack in a 4 cyl intake can cause water to go into the oil. I know that water would go into the piston chamber, but wouldn't the rings keep it from going into the oil pan, like the rings keep oil from going to the combustion chamber? I have rebuilt many engines. Can you help with this problem? I would think it is a blown head gasket, but this is my first boat. Thank you.
John the water would be sucked into the engine when the exhaust valves open. You could have both problems. On a boat of that age I would not hesitate to replace the exhaust manifold and since you will have it off the head gasket as well.
Since you are speaking of a 20 year old engine a replacement of the rubber parts in the outdrive, water pump and a good tune up would also be in order.
Jeff
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| Comment | Thank you for the response. That was very helpful and makes alot of sense. I don't feel bad about going ahead and ordering the intake/exhaust manifold and gaskets. Thank you very much. | ||
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Jeff Grigg
Expertise
Can help with most any question related to outboards, high performance, hull repair, rigging, if it floats and uses a motor. From a 9.9 on a aluminum boat to DFI two strokes. Outboard motors are my specialty. I can help with some I/O questions as well. Ratings are the only way we know if we are helping. If you are pleased with the help, please rate us. 20% don't bother reading my answers! If you are not going to read the follow up then why ask? Keep in mind we do this at no charge and are not paid. We do it to help you!
Experience
32 years in the marine business. Own a service facility, in coastal South Carolina certified Master Tech by Johnson/Evinrude, certified Mercury/Force, Tohatsu/Nissan. Former technical director for DMI Pistons. 30 year racing career including 3 APBA Formula V National Championships
Organizations
AMTECH, APBA
Publications Written For
Boat & Motor Dealer, Car Classics, Custom Vans (tech articles), Miami News, powerboat racing column
Awards and Honors
Certified Master Technician Johnson/Evinrude
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