Adding a valve to the intake water line

[dmksails]

My Yanmar is sometime difficult to start. I would like to shut off the intake water to the engine to prevent water backing up into the engine when starting is a problem. Any suggestions on where to locate this shutoff? I was thinking adding it between the strainer and the engine.

FYI - to access the thru-hull for this I need to lie across the engine and reach way to the stern of the boat. Makes it hazardous to open the valve after the engine starts.

Engine is a 3GM30F on a 31-ft sailboat.

[sailorboy1]

add it anywhere that you can get to

[pcmm]

What about a pair of "hose pinch pliers"? That way you don't need another joint in the hose....

[Wolfe10]

Originally Posted by pcmm

What about a pair of "hose pinch pliers"? That way you don't need another joint in the hose....

I like the OP's idea of an in-line ball valve a lot better-- less damage to the hose and a more positive flow regulator.

[Capt Clark]

Dmksails,

I would suggest trying to find why it’s difficult to start sometime. It sounds like you are treating the symptom. When is it hard to start?

Capt Clark

[Hermia II]

There should be a valve between the thru-hull and the strainer. Otherwise how would you clean the strainer?
It seems odd that you have to shut the sea water in order to start the motor, this is normally not done.
Would not be surprised if you have another problem, perhaps air getting sucked into the fuel line.

[ftamburrano]

I agree with Cap. Clark. Cure the problem, not the symptom!

[GordMay]

Originally Posted by Hermia II

There should be a valve between the thru-hull and the strainer. Otherwise how would you clean the strainer? ...

Although my engine CW intake had a seacock (vave), the strainer was mounted with it’s top, at the waterline height, so, when opened, no water exited the strainer.
Accordingly, I could clean the strainer basket, without closing the seacock.

[lvictorlucas]

Don't let the impeller overheat.

[bil56]

drill out the valve handle, mount an axle, install an extension rod to operate the valve from the front of the motor,
but the valve handle will have to be modified so that it is closed at 45° backwards and open at 45° forwards
and that works !