Flushing Atomic 4

Dao · #1 (**permalink**) 12-14-2006

After sailing I always flush my Automic 4 with fresh water. I've heard using vinagar once in a while helps. Should I let it sit in the engine for any amount of time or should I just flush it through as I do with the fresh water?

Thanks,
Alan
Belle France

ThunderFog · #2 (**permalink**) 12-14-2006

I found, in regards to Atomic 4s, that flushing them only clogges up the head. It is far better to just heave them over the side of boat.

Just kidding of course, I hope no one from the EPA was reading....

I actually loved my Atomic 4 and it ran for 20 years with out being flushed so I figure if you are doing anything, like flushing with fresh water, you engine will last longer then 20 years.

The chemist in me says the longer you leave the vinagar in the more calcium it will disolve. However Vinagar is an acid and I am not sure what prelonged effects it will have on the steel engine parts.

This should be a good chain of posts.