This is my second summer with a used 95 Champion 4.3L Mercruiser with Alpha outdrive. I purchased the boat in very good condition from an individual whom I nicknamed, "Anal Larry". He appeared to have taken great care of the boat.<br /><br />I noticed last summer that it would take on some water during a weekend's use, but it being my first I/O I was unsure if that was normal. Late in the summer I found that when parked with the trim up it took on a lot of water. I had planned to have it inspected and repaired during the off season, but did not.<br /><br />During this third weekend of use this summer, the boat takes on water when parked with the trim down. My bilge pump does not have a float switch and I would cycle it for 5 minutes every 2 hours to keep it dry when tied up.<br /><br />I am trying to determine the best way to find the source of the leak. I looked at and around the outdrive before removing the plug while on the trailer sitting on the ramp and could not see any water coming out. It has been suggested that I should remove the engine cover, back the boat into the water and crawl into the bilge and inspect the area around the outdrive housing. I'm not sure if that's possible. It has also been suggested that I fill it up with water and look for the leak as water is coming out. What is the best method?<br /><br />I'm assuming that since it takes on more water sitting than when moving it is not a cooling system leak or other operational type problem. Does that sound like a reasonable assumption?<br /><br />Finally, if it is a leak around the I/O housing, would I be wasting time trying to seal it to make it through the summer? I prefer to leave it in the water from Friday to Sunday and trailered Monday through Thursday. What type of sealants work best for this situation?<br /><br />Thanks in advance for any ideas or help.
