Sea strainer size

[Ctmangrum]

So I have a 1976 mariner with twin mercruiser 233 with no sea strainers. Want to install them before i put it in saltwater. What size do I need? Thanks.

[tomschauer]

What size are your raw water inlets? Most likely 1 1/4" Your strainers would need to be the same size.

[Ctmangrum]

I haven't measured the inside diameter yet but, at first glance, imguessing 1"-1 1/2". Thanks.

[Viper]

The typical size is 1-1/4". If it's still readable, it may be printed on the hose.

[Ctmangrum]

It wasn't printed on the seacock hose but the hose going to the engine. 1 1/4 ID. Time to get to work!

[Ctmangrum]

What's your opinion about strainer vs no strainer? I know I want one but I was just curious if anyone has operated their boat in saltwater and not had one.

[bud37]

It's really got more to do with keeping out trash and sea grass/debris etc than salt water vs fresh in my opinion. Lots of boats don't have them, they are a good idea in more ways than one though.

[Ctmangrum]

Im just looking for an excuse not to put two in.

[km1125]

Depends on what kind of water you boat in. If it's clean water I don't think it matters if it's salt or not. If you're in shallower water, lot of seaweed or other growth then it's certainly a good idea.

I had my boat nearly 30 years and never had strainers. Thought several times about putting them in, but never ended up doing it.

[Viper]

It's a good idea to install them even if the conditions in your immediate boating area don't require it because you never know the conditions of other areas you may venture off to. Even deep clear water can have some debris either natural or man made suspended at various depths which is best trapped in the strainer vs your engine. Keep in mind though that they don't catch everything. If you anchor in really shallow water for example any sand stirred up by the props that gets sucked through the intake will pass through the strainer and on to your pump which will decrease you impeller's lifespan.