are raw water strainers a must?

[alibi]

Hi Team

just rigging a pcm zr6 v drive in my inboard ski boat for use in freshwater, is a raw water strainer neccessary? keen to hear your thoughts:p

[FAST FRED]

is a raw water strainer neccessary?

YES YES YES.

Since you night get into thin water keeping the sand and mud out might extend the pump service life and keep you from flushing the engine.

FF

[El Sea]

are raw water strainers a must?

Yes, it's cheap insurance.

El Sea

[alibi]

any pics or suggestions on type of strainer to use?

[Stumble]

Well it isn't necessary to use a raw water strainer while using an engine... but then it isn't necessary to use a lifeline while trying to free climb Mount Everest. But personally I would never try to do without either.

Which model of strainer to use is actually dependant on the engine you use and any other loads that might be tapping into the strainer. The larger the water demand the larger the strainer needs to be. So to answer your question, how much water do you want it to pass?

[mark775]

No, a strainer is not necessary. I am perfectly happy with a monel plate flush with the hull bottom with a large number of angled holes drilled in it. This keeps the eel grass, bird feathers, etc. out of the boat, keeps less stuff hanging out in the current, and is one less thing to worry about. Just make sure that the holes you drill are smaller than the tubes in your cooling bundles. No common strainers are sized large enough to allow mud and sand to settle out.

[pkoken]

We pick up all sorts of 'interesting' stuff in out strainer. Wouldn't like those things taking a trip through the motor!

[alibi]

Well I fitted a strainer about 6 weeks ago, and thankful I fitted one, it amazing the crap that comes out of it!!! grass, leaves etc etc thanks everyone for your advice:D

[Mark Moore]

Sea strainer is a cheap device that will benefit you greatly. Please spend the few extra bucks.
Mark Moore

[mydauphin]

I am looking for Large, Stainless or Plastic, not Bronze, and inexpensive (lol) strainers that actually work. I am willing to make them if necessary. Any ideas?