* Milton Waddams wrote, On 3/20/2007 10:17 AM:
I have heard from several people that water intakes for the engine
cooling should be pointed backwards. That is the opening with the
grate should face to the stern with the covered part of the intake
facing fore. The argument is that the water will flow more smooothly
over the intake and have less drag. A vacuum will be created on the
lee side of the intake so adequate water will flow into the engine. If
the intake is reversed, too much water is forced into the intake and
creates drag. Is this true? Thanks,

I can't believe these are serious issues on a sailboat with a small
engine. The more important issue is keeping it clean. The slotted
scoop strainers are mounted so that the solid part faces forward and
the slots face aft. I don't think this would generate suction to pull
water in, if anything the suction would pull debris out when the
engine is not running.