Radiator cap stuck in Westerbeke 4-91

[marvinjansen50]

I have been twisting wrenches for over 60 years and opened 1,000s of radiator caps. This one on my newly acquired boat will twist so far and then I can push it down and go a little farther, so far it is normal, but then it will not come out of the manifold. It has been years since the cap was removed and I suspect the rubber is stuck on the manifold or radiator neck. I don't want to pull the cap apart. May try squirting some WD40 in there to loosen it up. Any other suggestions?
I also have a couple of other threads going on the alternator and fuel injector pump and appreciate all the help so far. Will head out to where the boat is docked and try something soon.

[HappyMdRSailor]

Start with the biggest first...

[marvinjansen50]

Will try prying, that was my first thought. Due to the engine position you can't see into the manifold so hope it just come out all in one piece. I guess you feel to "see" if you have antifreeze in the manifold. Didn't see a reservoir. A lot of new stuff to experience and learn.
Thanks again for replying and help.

[HappyMdRSailor]

Originally Posted by marvinjansen50

Will try prying, that was my first thought. Due to the engine position you can't see into the manifold so hope it just come out all in one piece. I guess you feel to "see" if you have antifreeze in the manifold. Didn't see a reservoir. A lot of new stuff to experience and learn.
Thanks again for replying and help.

Yea... Most powerplant positions are total crap for at least 90% of the stuff you need access to... One guy can change belts sitting in a lawn chair, but can't reach his dipstick with a coathanger... Another needs to crawl upside down in his aft lazzarette to see his belts cause his engine's mounted bass ackwards...

Be watchful for any flex on the neck of the cap mount...

Not a worry on the help... I've had lots of people help me to be sure!

[marvinjansen50]

Got it off. Used big screw driver to pry and popped right up. Antifreeze level was down about 2" or less, so figure you need some room for expansion and may be fine. Before winter will check it and maybe replace it if it is weak or discolored. Thanks for help.