Diagnosing Slow Leak into Bilge??

[CoralReefer]

I've got a small leak into bilge. Pump is running about 10 seconds every 45 min or so. I suspect bellows since lower cable was replaced at the beginning of last season but really don't know. Didn't keep in the water last year so didn't think too much of it but now that I think about it I noticed the same while out on the water last Summer. I've purchased a small mirror to try to view the transom plate are behind the engine. The leak is coming while not running and just sitting in the slip.

Is there common areas to look on these older Sea Rays other than bellows? The transom looks dry to the naked eye just viewing the bilge. I'm going to try to get a closer look behind the engine to try to figure where it's coming from. What's the chances that the drain plug/plug housing could be leaking?

Any tips/suggestions from experience here?

 

[Iprof]

If the boat is out of the water you could put the drain plug in and put water in the bilge along with some green or blue food coloring. If it is the drain (garboard) plug or the fitting of the garboard plug housing then the colored water will be easy to see.

Ken

 

[CoralReefer]

Good idea! I just read an older post where the owner determined a leaky drain plug. I hope it's something that simple.

 

[jasonschmitz]

I had an old sea ray with similar issues....turned out to be corroded bolts through the transom plate...looked fine on each end, but the inside was viturally gone. Replaced them and everything was dry and transom was straight. Might be worth checking.

 

[CoralReefer]

Thanks for the response Jason. I just got a message from a very reputable and highly recommended mechanic who's shop is 2 miles from the Marina. I'm setting appointment and will trailer to him to leave to fix her up. Did you pull the engine and replace the entire transom assembly? Sounds expensive if so. I'm still hoping it's just a ripped bellow and an easy fix. Keep you all posted.

 

[390x]

Your upper swivel shaft seal can leak as well. You'll see water towards the top of the transom housing under the steering arm, above the drive shaft. By the sound of it, it will be more than a slight drip.

 

[CoralReefer]

Thanks 390x. I want to nip this quickly and now so I can enjoy the season and since I'll be keeping in the water. This mechanic is good and everyone I talk to in the region says he's the best. I hope it won't hit the pocket book too hard but willing to do what I have to do to fix it.

 

[Uplate]

Thanks 390x. I want to nip this quickly and now so I can enjoy the season and since I'll be keeping in the water. This mechanic is good and everyone I talk to in the region says he's the best. I hope it won't hit the pocket book too hard but willing to do what I have to do to fix it.

JR was on my boat today tuning the generator. Did not charge me a thing. He will be straight with you and stands behind his work. Probably helps that I spent about 15K with him in the last 6 months.

 

[CoralReefer]

Uplate, thanks for the note. I've only heard great things about him and he's seems to be the go-to guy around here. Hopefully he'll go easy on my wallet