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Main engines sea strainer hoses

Discussion in 'Technical Discussion' started by Dennis Elliot, Sep 3, 2026 at 5:00 PM.

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  1. Dennis Elliot, Sep 3, 2026 at 5:00 PM
    #1
    Dennis Elliot

    Dennis Elliot New Member

    Joined:
    Jan 25, 2021
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    Location:
    Cape Coral Florida
    Hi.
    Is it necessary to have wire-wound hoses from the main seawater seacocks to the seawater strainers? I know that if there are any tight bends in the hose, it might kink without the wire, but if the bends are smooth, would it be alright to use soft-wall hoses for this job?
    Thanks.
    Dennis
  2. Pascal, Sep 3, 2026 at 6:08 PM
    #2
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    I wouldn’t. The hoses for your mains are the biggest on the boat… why cut corners there. Get the best hose you can like Trident. Not some off brand Chicom crap
  3. Capt Ralph, Sep 3, 2026 at 6:28 PM
    #3
    Capt Ralph

    Capt Ralph Senior Member

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    Satsuma, FL
    Low pressure (suction) requires wire reinforced hose to ensure nothing can callaspe in.
    After the raw water pump, not required.
    After a few years of boat management and service, I was amazed to find this and old hoses sucking in and restricting flow.
    The hose from the thru hull/strainer/raw pump needs to be the best hose you can find. Below the water line also dictates this. Don't cheap out on this.

    As long as I'm spending your money; Don't cheap out on the hose clamps.
    Remember, this is hardware below the water line.
  4. Pascal, Sep 3, 2026 at 7:29 PM
    #4
    Pascal

    Pascal Senior Member

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    Yep… quality solid band, not perforated, clamps or better on larger hoses T-clamps
  5. Capt J, Sep 4, 2026 at 12:00 AM
    #5
    Capt J

    Capt J Senior Member

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    Trident or Sheilds and absolutely wire bound. Corregated wire bound IF sharp bends are needed.