Mariner 3.5hp 4 stroke exhaust.

[CJU]

Does anyone know the purpose of these two holes that go into the leg exhaust tunnel of my Mariner 3.5hp 4 stroke They spray water out when the engine is running and can soak anything in the way. I’ve considered covering them, as they don’t seem to have a purpose but wondered if that might cause a problem. Thanks.

 

[snowbird30ds]

I wouldn't cover them completely, maybe drill and tap between them and make a cover to direct spray downwards, a strip of this stainless with a twish at each end and a fixing hole in the middle would do it.
I assume they are either to reduce exhaust back pressure or possible to allow air in so water drains out the bottom of the leg when tilted otherwise it would run up the exhause into the cylinder. (or both)

 

[rotrax]

I wouldn't cover them completely, maybe drill and tap between them and make a cover to direct spray downwards, a strip of this stainless with a twish at each end and a fixing hole in the middle would do it.
I assume they are either to reduce exhaust back pressure or possible to allow air in so water drains out the bottom of the leg when tilted otherwise it would run up the exhause into the cylinder. (or both)

Hammer, Nail, Head!