I have put on about ten engine hours since some major work on the cooling system. The big items were removing the heat exchanger for cleaning, and installing an Oberdorfer raw water pump. At that time all the hoses were replaced and many other items were repaired. All went well and no leaks were noted. Just wanted to double check all of the clamps and hardware that I had worked on, and investigate a new vibration issue.
The big issue I found was that both brackets that hold the heat exchanger to the engine were broken. I assume that when I opened them up, just enough to remove them from the exchanger it was enough stress on the metal to lead to such a quick failure. They did work fine for almost 600 hours until I touched them. I was able to find the OEM replacement brackets, p/n Westerbeke 46947. Knew there must be a better way.
I contacted "Mr Cool Marine Products" about the replacement heat exchanger that they sell for the xpb engine, which comes with replacement brackets and clamps. I was able to purchase just the two brackets and two clamps from them. This looks to be a much better way to mount the exchanger.
Put a little red rtv on the saddle where the exchanger sits and wrapped the the exchanger with some rtv tape to help with vibration and chaffing. Install was quick and the engine runs so smooth now. I really think it runs smoother now, then before the original brackets failed. The new brackets position the exchanger just up and forward enough to enable the transmission dip stick to be removed and checked easily. Also provides for just a little more clearance for the exhaust hose from the aft bulkhead.
Just wanted to give a heads up if you need to remove your heat exchanger or are fighting a vibration problem.
Jeff
The big issue I found was that both brackets that hold the heat exchanger to the engine were broken. I assume that when I opened them up, just enough to remove them from the exchanger it was enough stress on the metal to lead to such a quick failure. They did work fine for almost 600 hours until I touched them. I was able to find the OEM replacement brackets, p/n Westerbeke 46947. Knew there must be a better way.
I contacted "Mr Cool Marine Products" about the replacement heat exchanger that they sell for the xpb engine, which comes with replacement brackets and clamps. I was able to purchase just the two brackets and two clamps from them. This looks to be a much better way to mount the exchanger.
Put a little red rtv on the saddle where the exchanger sits and wrapped the the exchanger with some rtv tape to help with vibration and chaffing. Install was quick and the engine runs so smooth now. I really think it runs smoother now, then before the original brackets failed. The new brackets position the exchanger just up and forward enough to enable the transmission dip stick to be removed and checked easily. Also provides for just a little more clearance for the exhaust hose from the aft bulkhead.
Just wanted to give a heads up if you need to remove your heat exchanger or are fighting a vibration problem.
Jeff
