Since I am not mechanically inclined (my expertise is in computer hardware/software) is there a simple way to reseal the
exhaust muffler on a 1985 Catalina 30' Tall
Rig? The muffler housing has a steady, small water leak on the lower right corner, that ends up in the bilge.
The bilge was absolutely dry during the on-the-water boat survey, and for 3-4 short sailing days on lake Ontario, Sodus Bay area, until a couple of days ago when for the first time, I noticed water in the builge, below the level when the floater switch for the electric bilge
pump becomes active, and also noticed some debris that look like sea weed.
I also noticed that for some unknown reason, when I temorarily remove the small threaded draining plug from the
exhaust housing, a lot more water that I got used to see, drains into the builge area. Does this mean that the
exhaust is getting worse day by day?
Things to consider when troubleshooting this issue: the
pump out of the
holding tank followed by putting water with a hose through the
holding tank valve then again
pump-out, motoring in heavy waves that were crashing against the stern (outlet for the engine
exhaust center position on the lower end of the stern, and next the outlet for the electric bilge
pump), and a docking area that is exposed to wind and waves hitting the stern.
I dried the bilge with a wet 1hp shopvac and the second day I had again a little water in the bilge, this time with no signs of debris/sea weed.
I am a little nervous about this water in the builge, especially since I got used to the thought that my sailboat builge was completely dry.
I would appreciate any thoughts and suggestions on how to possibly resolve the water leak issue without recurring to marina
repairs (expensive).