captstu
Well-known member
- Joined
- Nov 10, 2014
- Messages
- 862
- Fluid Motion Model
- C-248 C
- Vessel Name
- Shearwater IV (SOLD)
Our 2010 R25 Ranger reminds me, daily, of the New York Times Crossword Puzzle. Try as I might, I can never figure out the last few clues.
Today's puzzle involves periodic removal of the heat exchanger (radiator?) cap to check and/or add coolant.
Ranger must have purchased the engine, assembled it in the hull with the engine full of coolant then attached the deck and completed the hull deck joint. The cap is located exactly under the door sill - nearly impossible to reach from either the cockpit or cabin.
I cut away as much boat structure as I could without significantly weakening her - and can now see the cap clearly - but my 70+ Y.O. hands can't get a grip to remove or replace it. I tap it with a bent file and hammer for maybe 30 minutes each when removal or replacement is necessary. I have replaced the cap in hope of a weaker spring and apply lithium grease to the gasket and flange with each installation.
Has anyone built a tool to grip the heat exchanger cap on the R25s with a 4BY2 engine to make removal and replacement easier?
Today's puzzle involves periodic removal of the heat exchanger (radiator?) cap to check and/or add coolant.
Ranger must have purchased the engine, assembled it in the hull with the engine full of coolant then attached the deck and completed the hull deck joint. The cap is located exactly under the door sill - nearly impossible to reach from either the cockpit or cabin.
I cut away as much boat structure as I could without significantly weakening her - and can now see the cap clearly - but my 70+ Y.O. hands can't get a grip to remove or replace it. I tap it with a bent file and hammer for maybe 30 minutes each when removal or replacement is necessary. I have replaced the cap in hope of a weaker spring and apply lithium grease to the gasket and flange with each installation.
Has anyone built a tool to grip the heat exchanger cap on the R25s with a 4BY2 engine to make removal and replacement easier?