on trailer engine running - engine flush port or through muffs?

[JTinMO]

Searched, could not find the answer so I'm asking this seemingly easy question to you geniuses.

I trailer my boat. At home before heading to the lake when checking over everything I like to fire up the engine to make sure all is well. Or when doing maintenance I run it in the driveway from the hose.

My question is should you run it with the hose connected to the engine flush port, or run it with the hose and a muff on the lower unit intakes? This is the first boat I've had with a flush port, so really not sure. I've ran it on the flush port only so far, but questioning my method now.

What says the group?

[AsLan7]

Searched, could not find the answer so I'm asking this seemingly easy question to you geniuses.

I trailer my boat. At home before heading to the lake when checking over everything I like to fire up the engine to make sure all is well. Or when doing maintenance I run it in the driveway from the hose.

My question is should you run it with the hose connected to the engine flush port, or run it with the hose and a muff on the lower unit intakes? This is the first boat I've had with a flush port, so really not sure. I've ran it on the flush port only so far, but questioning my method now.

What says the group?

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Either works jtM.
Folks have reported errors in their muff operations. I’ve never had an issue using muffs in 25 years of boat ownership. Make sure they are secure and you have good water pressure from your hose. Try not to rev above 3,000 rpm.

.

[JTinMO]

Thx AsLan. My water pressure is great (on a branch off the main feed to the house), and I've always ran off the muffs on prior Mercs. Part of me hates to run the hose up into the boat each time and have to deal with crawling around the open engine hatch to turn on the water, then turn off the water etc. I only use a pretty heavy duty set of rectangular muffs (not the wal mart specials) that seal well. I think I'll go that route for the future.

[Lockey14s]

I would run it through the muffs to get the full flush. I also find its more of a pain to run the hose up and into the engine bay.

the flush port really comes in handy when you slip the boat in salt water and want to flush the motor at the end of the day

[AsLan7]

Thx AsLan. My water pressure is great (on a branch off the main feed to the house), and I've always ran off the muffs on prior Mercs. Part of me hates to run the hose up into the boat each time and have to deal with crawling around the open engine hatch to turn on the water, then turn off the water etc. I only use a pretty heavy duty set of rectangular muffs (not the wal mart specials) that seal well. I think I'll go that route for the future.

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Yes we use the rectangle ones too. I’ve used the circular one before but the rectangle seems to grip better. Lower drive to the ground without touching and fire her up after water is turned on.

[JTinMO]

will do. Thanks again

[Big Block Power]

I would only use the port on a Volvo. Why mess with muffs. How many impellers have failed from the port vs muffs? Ports win there. Also watch your pressure you don't want to much. Also I don't know what max rpm is but we should find that. I know Volvo stated it somewhere and I don't go above 2k on mine. I even watch 1500 on it. If I'm bored I'll search it.
1500rpms Max.

[AsLan7]

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We never used the flush adapter on our Volvo 8.1. No issues with our impeller. Muffs are easy and safe when done correctly.

Regardless of which way you choose, it’s always better with CC switched thru the hull...especially for the neighbors.
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[Alaskabound]

I called the dealer recently to ask this question. The Volvo manual was not very clear on this to me. He said to use the flush fitting was fine but to be sure & cap it back off so it won’t leak. Like A7, I may still just use the muffs. By the way, my unit has a fitting under the outdrive as well as inside the motor cover. This way, you wouldn’t need to drag a hose in the boat.

Dub

[Big Block Power]

I called the dealer recently to ask this question. The Volvo manual was not very clear on this to me. He said to use the flush fitting was fine but to be sure & cap it back off so it won’t leak. Like A7, I may still just use the muffs. By the way, my unit has a fitting under the outdrive as well as inside the motor cover. This way, you wouldn’t need to drag a hose in the boat.

Dub

Dub stop looking at your motorhome! That's the city water hook up for it

[Alaskabound]

Now I know what the problem is. I’ve been using those stupid earmuffs to fill the fresh water tank on my motorhome. The things you learn on this forum.

[Big Block Power]

Now I know what the problem is. I’ve been using those stupid earmuffs to fill the fresh water tank on my motorhome. The things you learn on this forum.

We just try to help Dub,

This way you don't have to bring the hose into the MH to do the dishes or take a shower anymore