Hole in cowling??

[jbinyma11]

I have an '81 Merc 2.4 200hp that is carbuerated. I just got it about a month ago and I was wondering why there is a big hole in the front of the cowling that covers the motor. I can understand having the opening there to get more air into the carbs but shouldn't there be something there i.e. screen, filter or something to keep junk out of them.
This hole looks factory not just a hole some yahoo cut there....
Thanks in advance for any info,
JB

[jkh04200]

I believe it should have a cover over it. Trust me its there for a reason. Contact mercurey and see whats supposed to cover it/

[Towndrunk]

Theres a cover that goes on the outside . Should be 4 screw holes where it attached from the inside. The cowling you have was for a fuel injected motor. Racers take them off to get more air and than most loose them or just plain dont put them back on.

[jbinyma11]

Thanks TD, I've been running without it am I taking a big risk?? Should I try to cover it somehow until I can get the cover??
JB

[W.O.T]

i always thought that hole looked pretty neat and that was how i got the boat, but alot of people alwys questioned me about it when i owned the boat. people always asked about water splashing in there or stuff like that but i never saw anything that would be a threat to it at least boating on the river or lakes where i did. if you search online im sure you will be able to find the piece that covers it.

[W.O.T]

this is the cowling you have with the cover so you know what its supposed to look like. this one was for sale on ebay
http://myspace-878.vo.llnwd.net/00875/87/88/875578878_l.jpg

[jbinyma11]

Thanks Bro, I'm not that worried about it to much.. I think it looks cool too. Just worried about getting junk in the carbs.
Thanks for the reply,
JB