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How to Convert RWC to FWC

Converting a RWC to an FWC is a boating-engine conversion. RWC stands for raw-water cooled, referring to an engine that is cooled by the injection of water directly into the engine. FWC stands for fresh-water cooled, denoting an engine that is cooled by fresh seawater in the "evaporator" of a marine engine, which is akin to a radiator in a car. The advantage of FWC is that corrosive water never enters the engine proper, but instead cools like a radiator. The majority of boating experts recommend after-market kits, as these kits tend to be better quality while also being significantly less expensive.

Things You'll Need

FWC conversion kit
Pliers

Instructions

- 1
  Remove the present thermostat if needed. Install the new thermostat. The thermostat screws in. The FWC engine runs at a higher temperature than an RWC engine.
- 2
  Install the pump in a convenient location to your engine. Aftermarket FWC heat-exchanger kits mount the seawater pump in various locations.
- 3
  Insert a new T-valve in the cooling circuit. This simply screws in, and affords outlets for connections of hoses to the heat exchanger, pump and thermostat.
- 4
  Connect a recirculation hose between the heat exchanger and the pump.
- 5
  Connect and install a separate fill hose from the pump to the heat exchanger.
- 6
  Fill the heat exchanger with raw seawater and test the cooling system. Converting to fresh-water cooling brings the boat-engine temperature up to its optimum operating temperature, which reduces engine wear, improves fuel economy and prevents crankcase condensation.

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