Coolant System Draining for Winter

[iliketrout]

Hey guys,

I have a '76 Merc 110 that I'm winterizing for the first time.

I just rebuilt the carb (separate issue, I had a slight leak somewhere that turned out to be the carburetor flange gasket) so I know the fuel system is drained. Also changed the oil in the bottom end and plan to fog the cylinders.

My question is: How can I guarantee that the water pump and cooling lines have no water left in them? I don't have compressed air. The motor is going to be in my garage and I want to make sure the cooling lines are all drained as I had a buddy who cracked his evinrude when the water froze during one of our imfamous -35 degrees celsius winter days. I pulled the plug on the upper housing and had a few drops of water come out, I turned the motor over a few times and also turned the prop to get the impeller turning and no water came out of the tell tale. I think it's empty but should I pull the lower end off to make sure (reluctant to do so, it was a pain in the arse to get it back on when I did the impeller this spring).

Thanks in advance for the tips.

 

[Bifflefan]

Re: Coolant System Draining for Winter

My question is: How can I guarantee that the water pump and cooling lines have no water left in them?

Stand it up straight and all the water will run out. Thats by design.

 

[iliketrout]

Re: Coolant System Draining for Winter

Right on, that's what I thought/hoped but wanted to make sure. It hasn't been in the water for over a month so it should be empty.

Thanks!