[richardk5457]

fellas, finally freed up 1984 488 merc. let it soak for ten days. pulled heads and found 2-rear cylinders with rust on valves and pistons, nasty looking. head gasket appears to be an automotive one but no evidence of jumping water jackets etc. question how did the water get into those top end cylinders and valves? also had 2 bent rods. did the water get sucked up from exhaust and perhaps the internal flapper valve stuck.? alum. block and cast iron head. water got into heads, no water in oil. oil looks good. mech says will rebuild but i need to know cause of water intrusion. thinking water backed up from exhaust when shut off last time out comments appreciated thank you! richard