Exhausting Work

Literally and figuratively -- it was exhausting work.  Because the original exhaust system used black steel fittings, they had corroded.  (Yes, sea water and steel do not play well together.)  Oh, and along with the corrosion were exhaust leaks.  So being the safety-conscious individuals that we are, we decided to replace them now (with fiberglass) instead of waiting until we were in 20-ft seas.  (Just kidding!)  In addition, the original exhaust hoses were exhausted because they were over 30 years old.  So what the heck, why not replace them, too? 

The new fiberglass fittings worked well with the new hose and "T" bolt clamps:

But, have you ever tried wrestling a 3", wire-reinforced exhaust hose?  It's sort of like wrestling a python.  And there were some curves that this python just didn't want to take.  So, it took two handlers to tame it and guide it through the maze.  One of them here is about to be squeezed!

But finally, after much grunting and groaning, the python, er hose, was clamped into place on the "U" fitting (in the return loop) and now has a new lair.

There is a happy ending to this man vs python, er ... exhaust hose, story.  Man triumphed.

With any luck, this will last us for more 50 years this time!