Going over the engine, I see that my heat exchanger is heavily corroded and a replacement has to be done asap.
I worked in the pool industry and we always had stainless steel or titanium heat exchanger.
One of my thoughts is to move the heat exchanger from the back of the engine as I have seen many member do. The second is to hopefully use a bigger heat exchanger.
Is there a good reason why we aren't using newer heat exchangers? Other than cost.
https://www.poolweb.com/products/cn-ss-series-135-000-btu-stainless-steel-pool-heat-exchanger?currency=USD&variant=39247475998858&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&gclid=CjwKCAjw5_GmBhBIEiwA5QSMxAQ5ZIXhjd0pKdjJowaWL7lZCV7Aqby5gb1DO8oVy-CFH_m4So1XTBoCibIQAvD_BwE (https://www.poolweb.com/products/cn-ss-series-135-000-btu-stainless-steel-pool-heat-exchanger?currency=USD&variant=39247475998858&utm_medium=cpc&utm_source=google&utm_campaign=Google%20Shopping&gclid=CjwKCAjw5_GmBhBIEiwA5QSMxAQ5ZIXhjd0pKdjJowaWL7lZCV7Aqby5gb1DO8oVy-CFH_m4So1XTBoCibIQAvD_BwE)
https://www.pahlen.com/our-products/pool-heating/heat-exchangers/hi-flow-titanium/ (https://www.pahlen.com/our-products/pool-heating/heat-exchangers/hi-flow-titanium/)
C34 MK1 1988- M25XP
HXs are considered consumable items that, with care, can last for a long time, but not forever. There are good sources for replacement. Often lack of zinc replacement is an issue.
Heat Exchangers 101: Sources for replacement Good Guys at Sendure
http://c34.org/bbs/index.php/topic,6920.0.html
Most likely cost would be considered in better materials. Also, physical arrangement to fit in OEM replacement position without redoing the coolant and rw hoses might be considered. Although if one is going to relocate the HX off the engine, that's not an issue.
robert : List your production year in your posts. I know that you have a 1988 C34 (W/M25XP engine) but others don't!!
A thought
EDITED
Quote from: robertr0816 on August 16, 2023, 08:05:00 AM
Going over the engine, I see that my heat exchanger is heavily corroded and a replacement has to be done asap.
C34 MK1 1988- M25XP
The shell having corrosion on it doesn't NECESSARILY mean it's toast. Hx's can be rejuvenated if they are in good shape otherwise. YBYC but it's a lot of $$ to replace a Hx that doesn't need it.
EDIT
https://marinehowto.com/westerbeke-universal-marine-heat-exchanger-cleaning/
robert : Take your Heat Exchanger to an auto radiator shop and have it cleaned/boiled out. They can also pressure test it and let you know if it's OK. Go on line and find a replacement kit that has 2 new end pieces, bolts and gaskets. Then you'll have a new/refurbished HX!!!
A few thoughts
Although i think the original heat exchanger might be adequate, I am just curious if there is something better. Moving it off the engine is one great modification.
Now I am looking for a better option. maybe a larger surface heat exchanger or using titanium core heat exchanger that would actually help transfer heat much faster.
Things have changed so much since the 1980's and what once was extremely expensive like stainless steel, it is now much easily attainable. for instance with Stainless steel we wouldn't need Anodes.