Both Engines running hot

[Thomv]

We were out over the weekend and encountered both engines running near 180 to 190 degrees which I thought was unusual. They never got any hotter but I believe both engines have 140 to 160 thermostats. There was ample amounts of water coming out of the exhausts so any help would b most welcomed. My engines are 1998 8.1 Mercruisers with fuel injection.

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Both Engines running hot

If they both started to run hot at the same time, I would start to check the things that would be common to them, like electrical. Make sure your operating voltage is up to par (13-14 volts).

beyond that it is the basics of cooling system diagnostics. . . Oil cooler is a good place to start for blockage and then onto the sea water pumps.

 

[Grub54891]

Re: Both Engines running hot

Hit them both with a infrared thermometer,that will tell ya if they are truely warm,or if the guadges are messed up for some reason.What did they used to run at,or did you finally start watching the guadges?
Grub

 

[CharlieB]

Re: Both Engines running hot

Is there a common point in both cooling systems, such as a raw water pick-up or raw water filter screen? mussles or barnicles over a pick-up grow to be restrictive.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Both Engines running hot

Is there a common point in both cooling systems, such as a raw water pick-up or raw water filter screen? mussles or barnicles over a pick-up grow to be restrictive.

Ayuh,.... or even Weeds,..??

 

[Thomv]

Re: Both Engines running hot

I wonder if it has something to do with our Tampa Bay water temperatures? On Sunday when we went swimming it felt like you were in a bathtub the water was so warm. Would that affect the engine temps. When I was in a cruise once the captain had to slow down the ship because the engines were overheating due to the Caribbean water temps. I did check the sea strainers and they were clear. I do like the idea of checking each engine with a infrared scanner.

 

[tpenfield]

Re: Both Engines running hot

With a good running cooling system, probably not going to be effected by a higher sea water temperature. But . . . If the cooling system was marginal due to restricted flow, etc, then you may notice the difference with warmer sea water.

what temps range is the water?

 

[Thomv]

Re: Both Engines running hot

The water temp was almost 90 degrees in the bay.

 

[Bondo]

Re: Both Engines running hot

The water temp was almost 90 degrees in the bay.

Ayuh,.... If yer in doubt, swappin' out the Impellers is always the 1st place to start,....