Operating instructions

4S: Sea Strainers & Through-Hulls
4S1: Sea Strainer Cleaning and
Seacocks
The sea strainers on this boat are secure
and reliable. They protect the engine, generator
and refrigeration cooling systems from water-borne
debris which might block internal equipment
passages. If a sea strainer needs cleaning (see
above regarding inspection) here is the procedure:
1. Look at the base of the strainer near the
hull. On one side may be a welded-bar
“wing nut”. If there is one, loosen it a few
turns (the valve may “weep” a little sea
water.
2. Whether there was a wing nut or not,
there will be a valve lever with a relatively
long handle. Turn the valve lever so it is
perpendicular to the sea strainer (parallel
to the hull).
3. Remove the top of the sea strainer. Then remove the strainer by pulling it out the
top of the assembly. Rinse the strainer thoroughly and, if necessary, remove any
debris from the glass housing; you can use the fresh water hose in the engine room,
and a bowl brush is next to the water hose to help clean the sea strainer glass.. The
bilge pump will pump out the excess water.
4. Reinsert the strainer; replace the top, AND TURN THE VALVE BACK ON. Failure to
do so will overheat the engine.
Failure to re-open the valves will overheat the engine or damage the
pumps!
This entire operation will take 5-10 minutes at most, and will assure you of cool
engines.
Two sea strainers. These are in front of the starboard engine.
Left is the engine sea strainer, right is another.
Section 4S: Sea Strainers & Thru-Hulls 4.41