water temp?

[minytrker]

What should my water temp be in a freshwater lake? Im only seeing 120 maybe 125 at best. This is on a mercruiser 350 I/O.

 

[Chris E]

newer engines run about 170, older seem to run in the 150 range. 125 is a little low, but it could be the gauge. it also could be the thermostat is missing - seen that before.

 

[minytrker]

I have no reason to believe the new gauge doesnt work. I am ordering a themostat im 99% sure there isnt one there. I ran the boat for over an hour straight yesterday and it never got over 125.

 

[checkmate_rider]

fresh water mine runs at 160, if I beat on it 165 (92 350 mag-20' boat)
Hope that helps

 

[minytrker]

fresh water mine runs at 160, if I beat on it 165 (92 350 mag-20' boat)
Hope that helps

Thanks,

Im ordering a thermostat tomorrow. I ran it hard for 2 hrs yesterday and it almost hit 130.

 

[wizard8575]

does it take a long time for it to even start heating up?

 

[81 enchanter]

im usually running anywhere between 140-160 depending on how im driving her!

 

[minytrker]

does it take a long time for it to even start heating up?

not really, it will get to 110 pretty quick.

 

[1hotboat1]

Why dont ya pull the t -stsat housing n look for a t-sat?

 

[ezstriper]

stock t-stat for that is a 145

 

[winter]

Coolant temp isn't quite as critical as oil temp, though they are related. While coolant temp should be higher, maybe 150-160 in 70 degree water, you want to make sure your oil temp is up to spec. If it's too cool, you run the risk of poor lubrication properties and not having enough temp to burn off internal crankcase moisture. But yeah, a thermostat is a good start. I personally prefer restrictor discs instead. When you find the right size (almost always the middle of the 5 pack you get in a kit), you'll see the temps right on the money in average water temps. If you run deep into the gettin' cold months, you'll need to put a smaller restrictor in. But the best part is you never have to worry about a stuck or plugged t-stat screwing up your weekend.

 

[SunTime]

Pull the thermostat housing and check for a grain of sand or other forgein object stuck keeping the thermostat partially open. Not that uncommon.