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So, back in November of 2011 we had our starboard head gasket replaced, now our port one needs replacing. Has anyone with the Crusader setup had to replace them? Just curious if this is the average life of a head gasket?

It's common to do stuff like that both at the same time. Mainly because the engines are seeing pretty much the same level of activity (hours) on them. But budgets and schedules don't always allow for that. I only had time last season to do the starboard exhaust manifolds and elbows. The port side is 'on my list'.

Thus far we have not had to replace the head gaskets on either of them. Not seeing any signs of leakage or other issues.

As for lifespan, they're usually good for quite a long while, the head gaskets that is. At least until something like overheating causes them to fail. If the engine gets too hot things start to warp. That opens the door for a head gasket failure. Another reason for head gasket failure is rough running, including detonation, which may come from bad gas or ignition problems.

The exhaust manifolds, gaskets and elbows will typically require replacement about ever 5 years for a salt water operated boat. My starboard one was 7 years when I did it last summer and was starting to show a leak. The port one is not yet showing the same leak but I do notice it runs a little hotter than the starboard engine. I also noticed the starboard engine did run cooler after I replaced them, but not by a lot; perhaps 5-10F.

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-Bill Kearney, 2005 348 Vista