Each spring we try to get you started on a mental to-do list of items that should be reviewed before your boat hits the water. This week, let's think about taking care of your boat's engine cooling system.

 Heat exchangers use seawater to help the coolant side cool the engine. The coolant and the seawater pass through a series of separate tubes and the heat is transferred to keep the engine running cool and efficiently. Heat exchangers should be checked regularly for corrosion and leakage. 

Over time these tubes can become clogged with debris and restrict the water flow causing the engine to overheat. To prevent this from happening the core should be removed and cleaned regularly with acid. While it is disassembled the end gaskets and zincs should be replaced. If there is evidence of corrosion at the end caps, that's a good sign that it is time to service your heat exchanger. You can also help to prevent corrosion and build up by treating your engine with Salt Away.

Spending a little time and money to service your heat exchanger is far less expensive then needing to replace your engine because of overheating.

For more spring commissioning tips, please visit our BLOG often!