Water

Question
QUESTION: Just got an 85 Citation.  water is leaking into the bilge area from the rear of the motor.  There is no water in the oil and the motor (Mercruiser 140) dose not run hot.  Also the tilt.trim works to go down on the throttle but not up and just the opposite on the dash control. Any help would be greatly appreciated.  Thank you in advance.

ANSWER: Hi Scott...Thank you for selecting the undersigned to reply to your question.

There's a possibility of a tear in the boot surrounding the outdrive or in one of the through transom hoses. I can't help you with the tilt/trim problem, as I'm not a marine mechanic. Best you take the boat to a qualified and reliable marina for repair.

Safe Boating
Ron

---------- FOLLOW-UP ----------

QUESTION: Is it possible that I might have a crack in the block but not have water leaking into the oil?  And is there a "freeze" plug or cap on the end of the block?  It is very hard to see back there. I tried to use a mirror but it wasn't very useful.  If I need to pull the motor can it be done without removing the outdrive and gimble assembly?

Answer
Hello again Scott

Yes, it is possible to have a fractured water journal and not have water contaminate the oil in the engine's crank case. I believe there's two frost plugs on the starboard side of the engine (left side when looking toward the transom) below the spark plugs and just above the oil pan. There might be one more at the front below the lowest wheel pulley. Best you consult a qualified and reliable mechanic, as I am not one.

Safe Boating
Ron