My engine builder said I had reversion due to the water backing up the risers on pull out. Since then I have changed from low risers to the newer high risers. I leave the boat running until all winched up and secure. then shut it off, and pull out as soon as possible.

Is your thought process of leaving it running until winched and secure because the pressure from the exhaust will force any ingestion of water out instead of letting it in?

booooo!!!!

Yes. Good or bad?

If it works for you then good. I personally don't want to run the risk of sucking water back in should I have an exhaust valve chipped or not seating properly and the exhaust submerged. Everyone is going to have their ways and opinions for doing things. No one way is the right way, it comes down to whatever works for you is the right way.

97FASTech - sweet engine bay! I like those risers. What brand are they?

As far as running until winched up and secure - that is what I do when retrieving my Donzi - usually in gear to keep the bow against the roller. But I think those thru-hulls are a bit higher above the water than the Formula, so I get a real uneasy feeling when I load the 292.

They are stock Gil "High" Risers. These were the fix to reversion on a lot Merc motors that had the "Low" (pic on right)risers.

I see your point!!

I chipped an exhaust valve last season on the starboard motor. Mechanic said I showed some signs of water being pulled back in but nothing that was of much concern to him. Cylinder walls and piston were spotless, so just needed to rebuild the heads. Ever since then it's just something there in the back of my mind.

The ramp I use is also in the center of the marina, so as a courtesy to my fellow mariners I usually hit the silent choice so not to be a nuisance or interfere with casual conversation to those with slips next to the ramp. I had a gentlemen, in a slip next to the ramp, this weekend tell me that I should make a video of how to launch and retrieve a boat and somehow have it play in repeat at the ramp for others to watch.

Nice! I have had people comment on my ability to efficiently launch and retrieve any of my vessels alone. Usually people who think they are being helpful slow me down or hinder the process.

I hydro locked a motor once..... several push rods looked like S-curves. It was wounded bad..... hence my concerns with water ingestion...