Hey guys I have a question I have a 7.4 mpi raw water cooling system and the water hose going by the altinator output bolt has worn a grove in the hose from thermostat to the riser on the star board side,???? The pic shows the hose behind the dip stick behind the altinator? Question is what can I out on the nut and bolt coming out the back of the alt?

Hi Ozzibaja302

I also noticed the same issue with our 7.4. I have placed a plastic plug over the nut - this seems to have fixed the problem. By plastic plug- I have collected some scrap plugs that have come with mostly plumbing type fixtures - they are used to keep dirt out of a pipe.

Also, since you have the 7.4 - have you had any issues with yours?

We have a 2000 226 Cobalt with a Bravo III and Captains Call Exhaust - it really does well 63mph is cool weather with about 1/2 a tank of fuel (25 gallons).
Right now we have about 360 hours on it and have had ZERO problems- no oil consumption and only when I've used "jip joint" gas did I experience vapor lock.

We typically boat on a small inland lake in southern Michigan and Lord willing - very soon - take it out to lake Michigan - St. Joe or New Buffalo.

Take care and safe boating

3pointstar

You might get a short piece of larger hose and make a boot or shield to protect the hose. Also a vacuum port cap might do it.

Sometimes you can just cut off a short piece of vacuum hose and slip it over the protruding stud. Also, as mentioned, you can cut a piece of larger diameter hose and slit it lengthwise and then zip tie it over the hose to protect it. The black plastic wire looms will work for this too.