4.3 litre Chevy Vortec v-6 with Mercruiser outboard went under water

[david_d]

Hello, I am looking at a potential boat purchase, but the owner has stated that his boat was moored, and the battery died, causing the bilge to not function. We rec'd a heavy rain storm, and it submerged his engine, where is said water is currently in the oil.
He did said that the engine starts, but didnt want to run due to water in the oil.
Is this an easy fix by flushing the oil out a few times with new oil and filters, or should i totally stay away?
Just looking for some guidance.

Thanks

 

[boat1010]

Re: 4.3 litre Chevy Vortec v-6 with Mercruiser outboard went under water

I don't know how long ago it was under water. Is it salt water? If you get the water out right away it isn't really a big thing but the longer it has water in the motor the worse it is. And without seeing it run I would defiantly stay clear.

 

[david_d]

Re: 4.3 litre Chevy Vortec v-6 with Mercruiser outboard went under water

Hi, i am told that it was rain water that filled the boat, and because the battery was dead, it swamped the engine. I would think that it happened no more than 2 weeks ago.

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 4.3 litre Chevy Vortec v-6 with Mercruiser outboard went under water

The water can get into the oil through the crankshaft seals. May need to do a few oil changes to get all the water out. Definitely have to put a new starter on it as the one you have is going to fail eventually. If the water got as high as the alternator, it will need to be changed too.

 

[Brentathon]

Re: 4.3 litre Chevy Vortec v-6 with Mercruiser outboard went under water

Water can get into an engine many other ways.....head gasket, back thru exhaust, even one mis-firing cylinder, etc, etc.
I would stay clear of that.
Never trust what other people say.
Sorry to be so pessimistic

 

[bruceb58]

Re: 4.3 litre Chevy Vortec v-6 with Mercruiser outboard went under water

Sorry...I did not notice that this is a boat you are looking at to buy. I would agree and not believe anything you hear the owner tell you. Yes, many ways water can get in there including a cracked block. Basically, if you assume the engine is bad and price accordingly, that will keep you safe.