R27 ob Westerbeke belt replacement

[Jcat2010]

I'm hoping someone has been successful replacing the drive belts on the 3.5 westerbeke WITHOUT having to remove the unit from the bilge. I know on some boats it is possible to looser the from mount and tilt the front up enough to get access to the underside. It doesn't seem there is sufficient clearance between the unit and the mounting deck to get to it otherwise - but maybe someone has done that. Getting ready to tackle the job, but wanted to know if anyone has suggestions.

 

[TheFinn]

I was only able to replace the water pump belt without lifting it.

 

[sfladgard]

see my previous posts regarding belt replacement, easy to disconnect and roll the genset forward but be mindful of oil migration.

 

[TheFinn]

see my previous posts regarding belt replacement, easy to disconnect and roll the genset forward but be mindful of oil migration.

Would you recommend removing oil before rolling? Also what are you guys using for coolant? Mine seems to be a orange color which I believe is a GM coolant?

 

[Jcat2010]

I'm hoping someone has been successful replacing the drive belts on the 3.5 westerbeke WITHOUT having to remove the unit from the bilge. I know on some boats it is possible to looser the from mount and tilt the front up enough to get access to the underside. It doesn't seem there is sufficient clearance between the unit and the mounting deck to get to it otherwise - but maybe someone has done that. Getting ready to tackle the job, but wanted to know if anyone has suggestions.

I'll report back after hopefully attempting a lift/tilt this week.

 

[Jcat2010]

Belt Change Part 1 - I did a test lift today. There are 4 engine mounts, three are bolted down, one is just a footpad. Had to unbolt two and left one loosely bolted to keep the unit from shifting too much (changing on water). This allowed enough lift to get under and clean out all the debris and remove what was left of the old belt and water pump belt. Will update after I get the replacement belts on and tensioned. I have read that the main tensioner and spring can be very uncooperative with a new belt.