CMI Headers
 

I'm on the second of two sets of CMI headers on Merc 525's that leaked badly. First set after 100 hrs, second after 170hrs. This time hydro locked a piston and damage internally.

How many others have had this problem?

Thanks,

Mark :(

Re: CMI Headers
 

Stellings has a new 525 header available.

Re: CMI Headers
 

Eventually everybody!

Re: CMI Headers
 

Sounds like you have personal experience here. I've been told to drain the headers sfter each use. This will save motor from major damage but issue of headers leaking still remains. This is my first boat with headers, is this something I will have to deal with on a regular basis?

Re: CMI Headers
 

Is you boat a staggered set up? Is the problem with the forward motor? If so you need to get the header supports. A buddies 39 Cig with 525's had cracking issues too. (forward motor)When this happens, water gets in the oil, the contaminated oil packs up the oil filter. With the oil filter packed up, the oil cooler is bypassed and oil temps go to the moon.

Re: CMI Headers
 

Thanks for the info, I had the exact thing happen to the staggered motor last spring with the exact same symptoms. I have not installed the support brackets on the staggered motors. The one that I am having problems with now is the rear motor installation which is a standard CMI header. DO you have any pics of the header supports?

Re: CMI Headers
 

Sorry, I do not have pics. He has since sold the boat.

Re: CMI Headers
 

Are these headers flexing that much? This is the first time I've heard of problems with cmi's

Re: CMI Headers
 

There was a letter sent out to all OEM Boat Builders recommending the installation of the supports on all forward mounted engines due to the long tail pipes.

I will scan and try to post the picture and/or email you a picture of them.

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Re: CMI Headers
 

I have had personal experience. I treat my headers as if they are leaking weather they are or not. I have taps with long extensions and drain them every time i turn the engine off and fire with the taps open for a couple seconds to blow out any moisture. I have a very small bilge pump to suck the water out. Its all worth it for the bling and weight and HP. Thats on my Donzi 454 Mag. In the race boat in my signature picture we have stellings. Same deal but no builge pump cos we dont park up and have lots of starts between trailer. Jas