How to Clean the Exhaust Manifold on a Boat

A boat exhaust manifold is an important part of a boat's engine system. The exhaust manifold is where exhaust fumes escape from the engine and prevent the engine from overheating. The exhaust manifold is located at the very end of the exhaust pipe, and it may be necessary to remove some of the piping to reach the manifold located near the engine. Keeping this area of the boat clean is one of the easiest ways to extend the life of the boat's engine.

• 1

  Raise the boat above the water level with the boat lift so that you can reach the exhaust manifold. If your boat attaches to a boat trailer, park the trailer in a driveway. Allow the boat to air dry for 24 hours.

• 2

  Mix a cleaning solution of one part cleaning solution to 10 parts water. Wear rubber gloves to protect your hands. Dip the round brush inside the cleaning solution and wash out as much of the exhaust manifold as you can reach.

• 3

  Wrap a cleaning cloth around the brush and use it to wipe out the inside of the exhaust manifold. Check for signs of rust. If the exhaust manifold is rusty, you may have to replace it. Wash the inside of the pipe with the lime and rust removing cleaner to remove small amounts of rust from the exhaust.

• 4

  Flush the exhaust system with a garden hose. Flush the water through the system until the water runs clear.

• 5

  Dry the exhaust manifold with a new cloth. Soak a new cloth with rubbing alcohol and rub the inside and outside of the exhaust with the rubbing alcohol to remove any traces of water.

• 6

  Place a few drops of metal polish onto a new cloth. Rub the metal polish in a circular motion over the outside of the exhaust pipe to give the exhaust manifold a high shine.