Carver Owners Forum

Just purchased a 1976 Carver Mariner 3396. Gutted the inside and in the process of getting new flooring, curtains etc. Mechanical issues that I’m aware of...one engine stuck in forward and water heater needs replaced. Water heater is in engine compartment and not sure how to get it out without pulling engine. Anyone have experience or advice?

If water heater is not leaking replace the parts. Or maybe take it out piece by piece?

Welcome aboard!
What's directly above it?
Nothing wrong with making a new access panel.

Welcome aboard.

Looks like the WH is at the transom under the storage area. There may be an opportunity to gain or create access from/through there if that space is wide/deep enough but from the pic, it looks like the unit is right up against the transom so it sits right under the front wall of the transom above deck. How much room is there between the port engine and the side hull?

Why does it need to be replaced? Can it not be repaired? If it can't come out without removing an engine, is there a space elsewhere in the boat to install a new one and simply leave that one there or cut it up and remove it in pieces as Mike suggests. If you dismantle and remove the cover and fittings, the actual tank itself might come out on its side if you have room to tilt it under that support on top. Hard to tell how much room there is between it and the engine or bell housing. It won't be an easy one!

Welcome Aboard. Good luck getting everything up to a good working order. Hope you get it all fixed and start having lots of fun aboard.

I have a Santa Cruz 2866, with the Water Heater in the same place. I found it easier to remove the hatches, some deck hardware (ladder fasteners, etc) and just lift the deck. As heavy as it is (Mine is 8'X8'), it's easer than removing the engine. It also gave me access to some more hard-to-reach areas for some well needed maintenance.

Just wondering how you made out with your project. We have the same year/model. Our water heater is actually mounted between the 2 engines. Still would be a pain to get out though. What kind of fuel consumption are you getting at cruise speed?

KandJ - you may want to email the author with your request. The post was from May of 2018 originally. Also, the standard generator brand at that time was Westerbeke, but other brands were used in a pinch. er