Water in Bilge

A

AJ290

Member
Joined
Oct 6, 2005
RO Number
19221
Messages
5
I have a 2004 29' Amberjack. It is powered by 2 350 MAgs with V Drives. The V drive configuration was an option in this model boat. I bought it 2 years ago. When I was in the MArket I must ghave looked at 20 other AJ's most were powered by twin 260"s with Bravo 3's.
I noticed in all of those boats the bilge was dry and clean. I My boat I always seem to have some water in the bilge, not excessive but it is always there. I believe the shafts use the new shaft seals and not stuffing boxes. The engine compartment is really tight so I cant see if the water is coming in from the seals.
Is this common? I dont think I have a problem but I figured I would throw it up for discussion. Any input would be appreciated.
 
I know that water is the lubrication on the shaft seals. I think you do have packing on the steering though?? I am curious to know as well as I have V-drives on my 330.
 
I found the same problem with my 330 v-drives...the hull is designed to send any leaking water to the bilge. I followed a trail of water to one of the sink water lines. The plastic T and hose has a minor leak on the bottom and only leaks when you have the water pressure turned on...I hope your problem is just as easy to find & fix...
 
If it is not rain water or water from washing the boat, check your engine alignment. Poorly aligned engines create vibration and leaky shafts. Also check the plumbing for leaks. It's one or more of these four.
 
If you have, and I will assume you do, fishing pole holders, well there you go. They are an open hole to your bilge for rain water and when you wash your boat. PS. I had a 2003 290AJ with out drives and always had some water in the bilge.

Walter
 
I had a 2001 290 AJ with v-drives, I found a leak in the hull where the fiberglass pipe that carried the exhaust was fiberglassed to the hull, Was hard to find I had to use baby powder to help track it down. Also had a 1998 270 SD it had a leaky drain off of the one engine manifolds, that was an easy fix. The 2003 340 we have now had rain water coming in from the trunk area where the power came through the deck. We also have a Chaparral that I tracked it's leak to a port hole frame. You can find the leak or leaks just takes time to track them back to the sorce (My wife makes fun of me be cause when I find water inside the boat I go on the hunt to find the sorce). But it's very satisfing when you have them fixed and the bilge is dry!!!
 
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