exhaust issues

[grinfax]

There is a galvanized pipe that runs from my engine to the tube that carries the exhaust out to the stern of the boat. There is a hole in that pipe, which is somewhat rusted. The hole is not big, but it's at an elbow and will make it hard to change the whole piece. Is there a product I can use to patch up the hole or should I call a mechanic and replace the whole thing? I think replacing the pipe on my own is beyond my skills.

Thanks,
Kim

[BarryL]

Hello,

You really need to replace the galvanized pipe. If there already is a hole, the pipe is worn out. You can probably make a temporary repair, but view it as short term, like for a week or so.

This past season I was preparing for a week long trip. I moved my boat from my mooring to the dock so I could load gear, etc. When I opened a lazarette I saw exhaust gas in the compartment. Further examination revealed that the exhaust pipe was rotted right at the elbow. I spoke to my mechanic, who confirmed that it would be an easy repair, but he could not do it for a few days. I didn't want to miss the trip, so I used some high temperature epoxy and an exhaust clamp to make a temporary repair. The repair lasted the entire trip, which included over 10 hours of motoring.

When I got back I had the mechanic make the proper repair, which cost about $350. That included having a custom elbow made with the water injection nipple welded on.

Barry

[mitiempo]

If there is a hole it's probably pretty well rotted out inside. It's not a fix that requires a lot of skill though. I'd do it myself and save the 350.