Flushing the Cooling System

[Windborne]

A couple questions about the fresh water cooling system. Fortunately I am not having a problem with it. Just thinking proactively.

I've owned my Newport 30 going on four years. It is a 1988 with a Universal M25. I've never flushed the cooling system. This is a Florida boat so it does not get winterized.

The coolant level does not fluctuate. No leaks. The coolant, viewed with the pressure cap off is that rich green color.

Should I be concerned with flushing it? If so, about how often? And what tips and advice can you offer to do the job with a minimum of mess. There is not much room in the engine compartment and no room to place a pan large enough under the drain plug to catch all the coolant.

I thought about using the hand pump I use when I change the oil and pumping from the fill cap but that won't pick up gunk and junk off the bottom.

Any thoughts and advice would be appreciated. Thank you much.

 

[Ralph Johnstone]

Your system sounds (reads) to be in good condition. If you're not having any cooling problems now, I'd suggest skipping the flush and changing the coolant every couple of years. The reason for the somewhat excessive frequency relates to having a hot water heater. I can't be bothered draining the heat exchanger and hoses and rather choose to change the coolant more frequently.

The second biggest preventative measure to avoid the need for flushing is to use distilled water when changing the coolant. The most important item is to ensure the system is leak free.

 

[CaptainDave]

If it's not broken don't fix it.

 

[Don S/V ILLusion]

If it's not broken don't fix it.

If it's not broken, somebody probably did maintenance

 

[Windborne]

Thank you for the replies gentlemen. Will probably let it be for the time being. At some point may just drain and refill the manifold.

 

[CaptainDave]

Thank you for the replies gentlemen. Will probably let it be for the time being. At some point may just drain and refill the manifold.

You never really want to "flush" you cooling system. You risk over pressurizing and doing all sorts of bad things. Draining it and refilling it with distilled water and coolant is a different story. Also if you have zincs in your system make sure you know where they all are and change them out regularly. Also, when it's necessary, it's much better to replace your heat exchanger rather than have a radiator place rebuild it.

 

[Windborne]

Thanks CaptainDave.

When I asked about "flushing" I actually meant "draining'. I wasn't thinking of them as different things. I had to replace my manifold 3 years ago. I haven't drained it since and wasn't sure if I should. As I said in my original post, no leaks and the coolant is still that rich, green color. I also wasn't sure how best to drain it w/o making a mess.

Thanks all!

 

[weinie]

Drain, refill, burp.
It's part of preventive maintenance.