Update from "Grace" hull #40 in Morro Bay, CA

[Greg & Angie Wheeler]

Just an update on our progress, we have purchased new/used aluminum masts that we have had painted (white) and now we are in the process of getting the heat exchanger replaced. I have done my best to find a marine mobil mechanic for over a year to work on the old Osco 172 diesel ,we finally have someone that is a boat delivery captain/rigger/diesel mechanic, and just came back from a delivery and I am really trying to get all I can get done, before he leaves again. We live in a fairly remote location from any large towns and there are no local mobil boat mechanics, at least ones that actually show up and get anything done, we have gone through 2 of those. I tried to get the old heat exchanger repaired and there is no one in the area that does radiator repair type repair work, they all just replace with new radiators, a sign of the times.

At this point I'm looking to replace with a new one, I need that part replaced before I lose my mechanic. Most of the heat exchangers have separate expansion tanks and I really want one that has an integral expansion tank, and that narrows down my choices I posted a photo of the old one, just like Bob has on his 192/172 Osco and I'd prefer a vertical mount one like that, but haven't been able to locate one with that configuration. I downloaded a photo of the old, leaking one, not sure what I did wrong but the photo came out huge, hopefully it doesn't post that way. I've also included a photo of the exchanger I'm leaning towards buying. I have no idea of what size core I need?? All the ones recommended for the 4 cyl Ford Lehman are about this same size core and I would just purchase one of Lehman's if they included an expansion tank.

If anyone out there has a recommendation for a replacement, please let me know.  

[bob mitchell]

mornin Greg,

           Knowing all the projects you have done on Grace, let me suggest one more. If you don't know how already, learn how to solder. -you know, it is kind of just a home depot skill that just takes a propane torch and a few other small items. Easily mastered - all just a matter of clean surfaces and correct temp - not to hot, not to cold - there is tons of information readily available. It is an easy process - like "sweating" copper pipes. Then , after wire brushing your heat exchanger in leak area, do it yourself! I am sure you can do it is the leak is external, not internal.   JB WELD is an alternative.

[bob mitchell]

Is the leaking from the raw water or the engine water?

[bob mitchell]

If you want to try to fix your old one I would try a welding shop.

[bob mitchell]

Hi guys - glad to hear from you. Had some ideas about your heat exchanger, but did not feel qualified enough to share them. Here is one that can't hurt though. Let's see if we can figure out how exchangers are rated - maybe like "cooling surface area" and "flow volumes".  I'll start looking and if I come up with any ideas I will post. friend bob