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  • Jet-Boat Engine Repair -- Engine Installation
  • From "Weekend Mechanic"
    episode WKM-113
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    Click here to view a larger image.

    Bruce Bonebrake diagnoses the problems that have caused the port-side engine in this jet-boat to stop working. Once the damage is assessed, this boat receives a complete engine rebuild

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    Figure A

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    Figure B

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    Figure C

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    Figure D

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    Figure E

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    Figure F

    Engine Reinstallation


    The final steps in the jet-boat engine repair are the reinstallation of the engine in the engine-compartment, and reinstallation of related parts such as carburetor, fuel pump and air-intake housing.

    Important: Included below are the steps in this engine-repair procedure as shown in the episode. These steps are general guidelines that are applicable to most similar engines. With any particular engine, there may be procedures, specifications, settings, tolerances, components, etc. that are specific to that boat or engine. There are also variations according to the type and brand of repair components you select. Always consult your service manual when undertaking significant engine repairs, and read and follow the manufacturer's directions and precautions that come with your kit or replacement parts.

    Safety Alert: Always wear eye protection, and follow proper safety precautions, when working with power tools.

    Safety Alert: As a standard safety precaution, always disconnect the engine's negative battery cable before you begin work on any electrical or mechanical components.


    Steps:

    • With the assistance of a friend and/or an engine hoist, lower the engine back into the engine compartment, making sure to align the motor mounts onto their shims and their connections on the frame of the boat (figure A). Failing to seat the motor mounts properly could result in a bad vibration that could lead to other engine problems.

    • While rebuilding the engine, it's a good idea to perform some routing maintenance -- like changing out all sparkplugs. It's a good idea to replace sparkplugs every year.

    • Reinstall the carburetor (figure B) onto the engine, making sure that any debris and contaminants have been cleaned out of it.

    • Replace all gaskets during engine re-assembly. Replace the gaskets dry -- without sealer (figure C).

    • Make certain that all connections are secure on coolant hoses. A loose or improperly installed coolant hose could create another engine failure.

    • Once the carburetor is in place, install the fuel pump (figure D)

    • Make sure that the flame arrestors (figure E) are cleaned and free of any debris or metal particles before reinstalling them onto the carburetor. There are various solvents that can be used to clean the fuel arrestors. Follow the recommendations from your engine manufacturer's instructions for the selecting a solvent.

    • Thoroughly clean the air-intake housing (figure F), and reinstall it.

    • Finally, re-connect the battery cable and test-start the engine.


    Weekend Mechanic Tip: If you're considering purchasing a used boat, have the engine compression-tested before you finalize the deal. It could save you from having to undertake (or pay for) a major rebuild like the one shown in this episode.


    RESOURCES :

    The Haynes Small Engine Repair Manual
    ISBN: 1850106665
    Author: Curt Choate, John H. Haynes
    Haynes Publishing Group

    Chilton's Small Engine Repair Up to 20 Hp
    Model: 0801983258
    Author: Kerry A. Freeman
    Nichols Publishing

  • ALSO IN THIS EPISODE: