Just found worrying rust....merc 165

neilmw

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 19, 2004
Messages
245
Spent all day getting ready for the wet stuff on monday when I noticed a hose that runs round the back of the engine and goes through a clip that is connected to the cyl head, i was concerned that the clip had rusted quite badly and could cause the pipe to leak, in iyself not a problem, i was just about to undo the rusty bolt holding the clip when I noticed that the rust was not limited to the rear of the head but extended all the way round the side just above the sparks. I then entered the "it aint broke dont fix it mode"<br />but have come away rather worried about how long the head is going to last and how much it would cost to replace........is this a common problem??any help/advice appreciaited.
 

QC

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 22, 2005
Messages
22,783
Re: Just found worrying rust....merc 165

How "deep" is the rust? I have seen light rust in the area you describe on my older boats. I don't think your head (cylinder, not the one on your shoulders :) ) is going to dissolve.
 

weatherz

Seaman
Joined
Oct 9, 2004
Messages
56
Re: Just found worrying rust....merc 165

Should last another hundred years or so...the outside of the head that is. Might need a valve job or two in that time.
 

MrBill

Senior Chief Petty Officer
Joined
Aug 4, 2002
Messages
710
Re: Just found worrying rust....merc 165

I concur with the others...you'll encounter more pressing issues before the head rusts out. Try some spray lube or an anti-rust/rust penetrating liquid. That will put a reasonable stop to things and offer protection. Once you're running it regular the rust, probably formed from condesation, will be less noticeable. Brush and spray with above and enjoy...you wish you survive as long.
 

neilmw

Petty Officer 1st Class
Joined
Jul 19, 2004
Messages
245
Re: Just found worrying rust....merc 165

Thanks for the advice guys, will give it a spray this morning.<br />Not so worried now :)
 
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