Steve, exhaust gases ********MUST******** be present to move water from the
waterlift muffler overboard. If your engine is not starting, shut off the
water intake valve or suffer the consequences.


Yes I can see how that would happen if the water lift muffler outlet were
lower than the engine exhaust manifold as well as the overboard.

In my installation the engine exhaust elbow is at least a foot above the
water lift muffler and the overboard discharge is below the water lift (not
really a water lift in this instance).

The only way the water loft could fill to the level of the exhaust elbow is
if the overboard discharge were closed. If that were to happen the
compression pressure would rupture something in the exhaust system.

I still think the exhaust valve is staying open enough (when the engine is
dead cold) and during the power stroke, the piston sucks water vapor into
the cylinder. Not enough to cause a hydraulic lock but enough to show water
traces in the lub oil after a dozen or so start attempts. (no other way for
water to get into the oil in these engines since the water jacketed cylinder
is independent of the crank case, as is the water cooled head. ).

Steve
s/v Good Intentions