787 rfi water channel bypass

[miller8931]

Looking for some opinions on bypassing the bottom water channel on a 787 rfi i recently found out the seal is leaking and in order to repair it i would have to pull the motor I've been told its ok to bypass till I pull the motor to rebuild it but I've also read that its there for a reason and it should be repaired. any input would be appreciated

 

[etemplet]

How bad is the leak? Have you determined the exact source of the leak? You could have have a hose or fitting leak. If you disable this you also have a cooling channel near the mag that would need to be connected. I've restored a few RFIs and you can't see much under than engine without a camera probe.

What's your compression readings?

 

[miller8931]

It's leaking pretty good i only noticed because when I was adding the antifreeze when winterizing it it was pouring out between the seal on the water channel I haven't done a compression check yet

 

[burtshaver2021]

I can’t tell the location from the picture, would you be able to grab a picture from further away?

 

[miller8931]

It's right behind this on the bottom of the engine the second picture is the piece thats leaking where the arrow is

 

[burtshaver2021]

It's right behind this on the bottom of the engine the second picture is the piece thats leaking where the arrow is

I’m not familiar with it

 

[shamrock246]

Going out on a limb, Is it there on the RFI to cool the crank case since there is no fuel passing around the crank and in side the crank case. The carb version doesn’t have it.

 

[etemplet]

It's leaking pretty good i only noticed because when I was adding the antifreeze when winterizing it it was pouring out between the seal on the water channel I haven't done a compression check yet

I know the spot well. LOL Issues are, these bolts have been difficult for me to remove even with the engine out. The love to break off. I'd say try to tighten that section as it is close to the PTO. Might give that a try but be gentle. I live is south Louisiana so difficult bolts are very common. Just wondering if radiator "stop leak" might solve your problem for a bit. Since you are considering plugging it off that might be something to try and still let the system function as designed.

I ask about compression because that would justify a reason for pulling the engine. LOL I've done top ends without pulling the engines all every model but... it's an excuse. LOL Pullin the engine on a RFI isn't too bad a job. You'll find all kinds of stuff that needs looking at too. Good Luck !!

 

[mikidymac]

Going out on a limb, Is it there on the RFI to cool the crank case since there is no fuel passing around the crank and in side the crank case. The carb version doesn’t have it.

Yes, the DI uses a case cooler also. You don't have the fuel vapor circulating to cool the crank, only air.

 

[burtshaver2021]

Yes, the DI uses a case cooler also. You don't have the fuel vapor circulating to cool the crank, only air.

Just curious as to what’s lubricating the connecting rod bearings with no fuel circulating in the crankcase

 

[mikidymac]

Just curious as to what’s lubricating the connecting rod bearings with no fuel circulating in the crankcase

You still have oil injected into the crankcase.