Installing a flushing system on a Penta

[bijou22]

Hi, I have a Volvo Penta 4.3GL PLKD 1997 with Cobra SX drive. The boat is continually moored in saltwater, and lately I have been thinking of how I can flush fresh water through it after every use. As a DIY project, I was thinking of installing a T piece hose from the water pump to engine with a hoselock connector to run the water through and then a tap to prevent any sea water entering the system while it is moored and flushed. Does anyone have ideas on this or has tried something similar? How much damage can it do not to flush, as most boats around me are in the same situation.

 

[rodbolt]

Re: Installing a flushing system on a Penta

there is an inline check valve ,one is made by perko, that splices into the seawater intake line that does just that.its not very expensive and the hose connection can be remotly mounted for easy access.

 

[bjcsc]

Re: Installing a flushing system on a Penta

That's the way my engine was supplied. The line going to the engine (before the water pump right at the transom) has a T in it that goes to a check valve and then ends with a ball valve that a hose hooks to. You would, as you mentioned, also need a valve to essentially shutoff the seawater pickup while you were flushing. I would think you would want a big (inside diameter) valve so as not to restrict the seawater flow during normal operation. You would also need to regulate your hose pressure down as there will be no "flow through" as in normal flushing. My hose pressure here is ~70psi. and that is more than enough to blow seals...

 

[Reel Poor]

Re: Installing a flushing system on a Penta

You can get the Perko flush kit right here at iboats Mega Mall.

 

[bijou22]

Re: Installing a flushing system on a Penta

Thanks guys, I was thinking of the Perko also. Does it matter in which orientataion it is installed. Cannot buy from i-boats as they do not ship to UK. Any other good US stores?

 

[Reel Poor]

Re: Installing a flushing system on a Penta

Does it matter in which orientataion it is installed.

Backwards is the only position it won't work.