Did not pull waterpump hose off of 4 cyl merc boat motor when i winterized it?

Question

and weather got well below freezing is this a major concerne...i did pull all other plugs in manifolds and engine

Answer 1

Most water pumps will drain back into the engine block when there is no water or coolant in the system.

By removing the engine and manifold plugs you have most likely avoided any major frost damages.

However if by any chance the water pump has received frost damage,this is minimal compared to what could of incurred if the plugs had not been removed.

So if the pump does need to be replaced, just count your lucky stars and take note of the anguish and uncertainty this lack of fore thought has cost you. Surely not to be repeated again.

Just run the engine for now and make a good visual inspection of the cooling system and over all operation, keep an eye on your temp and oil gauges.

TIP: After removing manifold and engine water drain plugs insert a small piece of wire into the drain. Sometimes these drains can get blocked with rust and need to be coaxed to drain fully.

http://www.brokeboats.com/winterinboard....

Answer 2

Chances are if it damaged the motor, you won't know until you try and start it. So go ahead and try. If there's any damage, it's already done.

Try it at home though, not the lake. If you have a "clam" put it on and run water to it while you run the motor.

Answer 3

Paul has the best answer. All you can do is try it, and see if the engine heats up. If it does you have a starting point to repair.

Answer 4

There is not much water in the hose so you might be alright, put the ear muffs on and try it.