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Leaking sunsetter


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Has anyone had a problem with a 1998 Sunsetter leaking? Have had the boat at a reputable shop and they can not figure out the problem. Claimed to have their best tech on it and a professional fiberglass guy. Any tips on what to look for?

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I just bought a 2006 response LXI. The bilge kept filling with water. Found that the clamp on one of the mufflers was broken creating a bad leak. Was hard to find. Had to remove the panel over the drive shaft and become a novice contortionist to see it. Even harder to gain access to fix it. Once I did it was good. 
 

You really have to just look at each possible source and rule it out until you find something. Intake line, driveshaft seal, Engine plumbing, exhaust, and fittings. 

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When looking for leaks I will remove every piece of equipment, seats, and panel possible for access, completely dry the bilge, then get a flashlight, mirror or scope camera, and a helper to operate the boat.

Put the boat in the water, but keep it on the trailer and inspect for leaks.  Start the engine and check for leaks.  Have your assistant drive the boat at different speeds and check for leaks.  Bring a bucket, and some towels to dry out the bilge in case water builds up in there before you find the leak. 

Sometimes I have to put the boat back on the trailer, drain and dry the bilge, re-launch and start over if there are several leaks or if they are hard to find.

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I've come to just accept the leaks on my Sunsetter (after some pretty major battles with my shop).   I believe the leaks are mostly through the shaft packing and HDS.  

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2 hours ago, mayfike said:

I've come to just accept the leaks on my Sunsetter (after some pretty major battles with my shop).   I believe the leaks are mostly through the shaft packing and HDS.  

Shaft packing is no biggie - leaky HDS is.

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