Mercruiser Overheating

ggeorgevt

Recruit
Joined
Jun 21, 2003
Messages
3
Hello All,
I hope someone can help me. I have a 1995 Merc Alpha One/Gen II 5.7L that's been giving me some problems this year (no problems last year). I took it out and noticed that the engine was running higher than normal (170-175) @ slow speeds and rose rapidly when given higher throttle. I changed the belts, impeller (looked ok, but was not engaged in the slot, changed with a new one anyway), and thermostat. I used the ear-muffs in the driveway and it was pumping pretty well out the ports bellow transom mount (although the water didn't get very warm). Took it out again and had the same issues.

A few side-notes...

- The boat has a hot-water heater so I checked to see if the sink water was getting hot after running for a while, and it wasn't even warm. Indicates no flow to the water heater??

- I felt with my hand and found that the only water line that was getting hot was the large one coming off the thermostat housing.

- Circulation pump is turning and not weeping any water.

- Noticed a little sand in the thermostat housing.

- Outdrive is only 2 years-old.

I'd really appreciate any help someone could give me... the season's coming rapidly to an end here.

Thanks,
Greg
 

Don S

Honorary Moderator Emeritus
Joined
Aug 31, 2004
Messages
62,321
Re: Mercruiser Overheating

If your exhaust manifold and/or risers are plugged up with sand or rust from age, it will prevent restrict the water circulation. If they are original, I would pull the risers off and inspect them.
 

Chris1956

Supreme Mariner
Joined
Mar 25, 2004
Messages
28,129
Re: Mercruiser Overheating

Greg, if you are getting water out the idle relief and prop hub, it sounds like the thermostat may be stuck closed.
 
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