Engine Problems in the Future!!

Alistairr

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I heard a rumour that the new generation Mercruiser engines are not exactly suited to the current type of unleaded petrol.
Apparently the fuel is too clean.
There have been reports about damage to the valves, as in mushroom valves.
I was concerned to hear this as i have a new 5.0mpi, so i went to see the mechanic who serviced it for me recently, and he confirmed it.
He said don't worry, yours is still under warrenty, But that is not the point.
He has had to replace an engine because it was so bad, but usually its just the valves and occaisionally the pistons that require replacing.
He advice that an additive would need to be added to the fuel every time i fill up, but at an extra £15 for every 200 litrs of fuel i put in, i am not a happy chappy/forums/images/icons/frown.gif.
The addititive is a valve lubricant.

So is this acceptable?

Why did the dealer not make me aware of this when i bought the boat?

If there is a known problem, then should Mercruiser not supply me with the additives FREE OF CHARGE.?

Has anyone suffered this problem?

How do i take this further?

Thanks inadvanced.

cheers...

Alistair..

P.s. This sort of thing is what this forum is really all about/forums/images/icons/laugh.gif
Providing someone can help me.



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martynwhiteley

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Hi Al,

Hope you had a good holiday, although I guess it seems a long time ago now.

I can understand your concern about the engine, esp. future resale issues.

Did you see Watchdog the other night regarding the Peugot 405's and their spontaneous combustion? This was a potentially life threatening problem that Peugot waited months for before deciding to recall them, and then initially refused to pay compensation, although the programme now suggested that they would do so.

I think the first approach is to get some official statement from Mercruiser (perhaps they will offer extended warranties on this issue if they accept liability?).



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ChrisP

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That's one hell of a horror story, maybe someone going to the SBS could visit the stand and get their reaction. (I went last saturday otherwise I'd do it). Then pass it to the magazines at the show.

Just a thought. If its a valve lubrication problem similar to that of older engines running on unleaded petrol. Would one of those catalyst containing fuel cartridges you can buy in the go faster shops help? It's not the answer I know but it may keep the costs down a bit while the engine and boat manufacturers wake up to their responsibilities.

Best of luck

ChrisP;o)

P.S. Presumably the new engine has passed the relevant emission tests. If so was it running on raw petrol or did it have an addative to prevent the damage. If the former, does it still pass with an addative? If not and the engine can only run with an addative which cannot pass the testing, is it suitable for sale in the E.U. Fit for purpose??



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Alistairr

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Yes i had a great holiday, spent most of it on the boat, which is what i wanted to do. Your hols pics look good,your second boat looks lovely/forums/images/icons/wink.gif although a bit on the small size!!/forums/images/icons/laugh.gif

I haven't really got an issue with the extra cost, its just frustrating having to go and buy stuff from a chandlery 20 miles away from where i keep my boat. All i want is whats best for my Baby!!!!!

Do Mercruiser have offices in this country, or should i contact Barrus?

Are there any members on here from such companys wishing to comment?

Cheers Martyn..

Alistair.



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Alistairr

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I wish i was going to the SBS ,so as i could speek to someone regarding my concerns, but unfortunatly i am not able to.

I don't know what the catalyst cartridges are you are talking about . so i dont know...



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martynwhiteley

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You could try posting on the (US) marinepower.com website, where there is an (official) Mercruiser technical forum.

However from my experience, there responses are very sanitised and they are careful to forget to answer any questions that may incur them any liability.

What about through your local dealer, In my experience Barrus and chocolate teapots have rather a lot in common.



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Alistairr

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C'mon, SURELY there is someone else on this forum who has a mercruiser and is worried about this PROBLEM, Or maybe already suffered from this problem.

Let hear from you!!!!!



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martynwhiteley

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RU sure it's not a wind up from someone who has shares in the additive company?

BTW I'm visiting Longannet next week, perhaps there's an opportunity for a wee dram en-route?



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