I have always run the water through the exhaust manifolds tp pre heat before going into the block. One simple reason. Say you have been running pretty hard and shut down the engine. If you dump cold raw water directly into the block on restart, you have a chance of cracking the block.
I have used Diehard cranking batteries in my Spectra 24XS for years. I use the Perko switch for A or B or Both. I installed a battery isolator in the system to keep one from drawling the other down if it becomes weaker. I usually run it on both while under way then will switch to just one if...
While you are at that stage, you may want to check your fuel tank pick up tubes. I had the one in my port tank break off. Used a flexible tube and fitting since the fitting is under the gunnel. This was on my 1978 24 XS.
My summer home is in Blind River Ontario located between Sault Ste. Marie and Sudbury ON. About 100 mi east of the Soo. I have boated all through the straights of Mackinaw, into Lake Michigan, all the way down to Traverse City. Spent many a night at Mackinaw Island and all the way back through...
I'm just waiting for the Canadian border to open. I live in Florida Nov-May and head north for the other 6 months. The North Chanel of Lake Huron is some of the best cruising grounds in the world. Tons of uninhabited islands with beaches. Crystal clear water. Must have good GPS and charts...
Yes there are Spectra's in the north. I have a 1978 24'XS V-drive in Northern Ontario. I run the North Chanel of Huron over to the Georgian Bay quite a bit. I bought my Spectra from a marina in Northern Mich. in 1992. The boat came new from the dealer in Mt. Clemens MI. you mentioned. Also...
I also had a concern about my engine running too cold. After my last rebuild, switching to a roller cam which creates less heat, I installed a Moroso restrictor washer in the thermostat housing. Never ran a thermostat since sand suspended in the raw water can screw those up. It still runs...
Still interested in the gas caps and name plates. How do I get in touch with you? Let me know what you want for them. I'm in FL. so you would have to box them and ship it. Best Regards, Steve PS: Just makes me sick to see what happened to that beautiful Spectra.