Formula Tenn
New member
Looking for some feedback on using this stuff to clean an engine heat exchanger. We've got a persistent above normal heat issue that I think i've traced down to the main heat exchanger. Just isn't flowing enough raw water compared to the other side. These are the steps I've already taken: All raw water hoses and heat exchangers were removed and inspected. All heat exchangers were taken to a radiator shop for cleaning. Sea strainer was removed and cleaned. Raw water pump was replaced with a Hardin marine pump and new impellar. Thermostat was replaced even though that is on the antifreeze side. Risers and spacers were removed, cleaned and inspected and were found to be clear of any debris or build up. muffler was removed and inspected, found to be completely clear. Exhaust manifolds were inspected because we were losing antifreeze too. One manifold was suspect so I replaced it (manifolds do not have raw water, they are on the closed side), that cured the antifreeze loss. So i've seemingly been from one end of the raw water to the other besides removing and cleaning the actual thru hull but it flows water unobstructed and appears fine. Last night i warmed up both engines and took some temp readings with one of those laser temp guns. for the most part everything seemed to be within 5-8 degrees from one engine to the other. the last thing i did before going home was to do what i'd call a pulse test on the hoses coming out of the heat exchanger, the ones that go to the exhaust risers. The engine that runs at normal temps had a strong pulse of water coming out of both hoses compared to a noticeably weaker pulse on the one that runs warmer. This "test was done by slightly pinching the hoses so as to feel the water flowing thru them. Although I did not do the same test on the hose going into the heat exchangers if we were to assume THEY were similar in feel that would indicate the heat exchanger itself is not flowing freely. Which brings me back to my original question, has anyone used barnacle buster, a similar product, have any input on what else I might try to increase raw water flow thru the main heat exchanger?
