Re: Disappointed new Potter 15 owner needs advice from other Potter owners

Bernard Johnson (slithytove@earthlink.net)
Tue, 08 Jun 1999 20:11:44 -0700


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West Wight Potter Website at URL
http://www.lesbois.com/wwpotter/
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> , Outboard motor totally saltwater
> immersed $500.

Jeff, What a rotten day you had! You have my heartfelt sympathy.

It is possible that you can salvage your outboard even now. As you probably
know I had a similar experience resulting in my outboard being immersed in
sea water for at least two hours. The day it happened I was too shaken to
even think about assessing damage, much less start fooling with a soaked
outboard (brand new by the way). However the next day I started looking at
it (after having received encouragement from other Potterers in the
meantime). Basically all I did was remove the carb. and the spark plug, then
ran water from a hose alternately into the spark plug hole and the carb.
inlet while manually cranking it over with the other hand. I also washed the
carb. out as best I could. I let it drain/air dry for the rest of the day
and at night drenched everything I could think of (and reach) with WD40
(again while cranking) and just left the whole mess to soak for a couple of
days. (Oh, I also drained the fuel tank, washed it out, then filled it with
water so I could suck water through the carb. by cranking). Eventually I
plucked up enough courage to try and start it, and IT DID! It has worked
just fine ever since with no apparent ill effects.

I think I can say, as a fellow turtle-ee, that I have a good idea how badly
you feel. It took me about 3 weeks before I could make all the other repairs
and I still was reluctant to go sailing again. It really shook me up, but I
received many kind and supportive letters which helped tremendously. You
know, it could have happened miles off shore, then it would have been a real
problem. It is best that you have found out how tender the boat can be now,
so you can take suitable precautions in future.

Take your time, then "climb back on the horse".

Best wishes and sympathy......Bernie Johnson