I have 2002 38 lightning and want to install sea strainers. Can anyone please give me some helpful tips and information to help with starting this process ? I am not sure the proper location and where to start? I have 575 SCI motors side by side.

With my 2002 38 semi-stagger, I put each one directly below the pump, fed by through hull pick ups. It would work fine with side by side. Seal drilled holes and use a nut and bolt, no screws, to mount them to the stringer.

Mount them slightly above water level , that way if you ever have to take off lid to clean out debris while boat is in water , you won't flood the boat .

Mine are forward of starboard engine down low .

We mount them back to back on the center stringer and thru bolt them together and if you are going to thru hull water pickups I would install full flow ball valves just inside the water pickups.[ATTACH=CONFIG]550142[/ATTACH]

^^^^ Thats nice set up archer. I like the single screw top as opposed to nuts or wing nuts

I wish I had added the inline ball valve as I have limped back to the hoist on a few occasions as result of full strainer that I was doubtful to clear while I was still in the water..

I mounted both strainers to my center stringer in my 35' and put ball valves on the sea water inlet, I also had Teague add another inlet to the strainers so I can flush motors off the hose.



[ATTACH=CONFIG]550148[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]550149[/ATTACH][ATTACH=CONFIG]550150[/ATTACH]

Good options posted here... definitely install ball valves on inlet hoses going into strainers

Not sure I can add much to what is said but here are mine. Like others I have full flow ball valves on the inlet (that is a must IMO) and a added input for flushing. Through bolted.

DSC_2499 by WIldman Grafix, on Flickr

DSC_2501 by WIldman Grafix, on Flickr

DSC_2506 by WIldman Grafix, on Flickr

One tip to remember is not to mount them too high above the water line as you may create flow issues at idle or low speed travel , you don't want to fight gravity.
RG.