Just recently bought a 1995 Sea Ray 175 bowrider. After 2 weeks I had the 9 years old riser and manifold replaced as routinely recommended when in saltwater (Merc parts). The engine also had to come out to replace the leaking sump gasket ($$). All done by experienced (?) mercruiser mechanic. Now I notice that, when flushing the engine with the bunny ears, that the exhaust relief holes on both sides of the gimbal of the Alpha 1 leg are uneven in their discharge of water / exhaust. Exhaust seems even, but water only comes out of the right hand side hole, even when changing the steering directon of the leg. I am pretty sure that before the repairs there was even water discharge across both holes. Since the repair, the exhaust noice seems occasionaly louder, too, when idling with the boat in water. Should I be concerned? What could be the cause? Wrong gaskets, blocked bellows, flaps? Appreciate your help.
<br /> unless the tech did not inspect the flapper. its rather difficult to check sometimes. but even a missing flapper wont cause loud exhaust. it can cause a loss of power and shift problems it it gets in the transom housing exhaust cavity. but I think your chasing a ghost.
