pre-season start up 4.3L '90

[denhajm]

Engine s/n: OC861086

So, just installed new lower unit impeller, new lower unit oil, re-installed block and manifold plugs, reconnected water hoses. I put on the muffs with water and started the engine and I ran it for a while.

I shut it off as I soon began to wonder if I need to 'fill' the block with water from the thermostat housing before running engine up to operating temp? I'm imagining the water passage of the block being dry and empty until the thermostat opens up and allows water to flow through the block--is this correct thinking?

Do I need to 'pre-fill the engine' or just wait and let the thermostat open by itself?

If I need to pre-fill, what are the steps?

thanks,

Jason

 

[Bt Doctur]

Re: pre-season start up 4.3L '90

all you do is remove the large hose at the therm housing and fill with a garden hose.

 

[denhajm]

Re: pre-season start up 4.3L '90

Okay, thanks Doctur--I did that. Started up and ran at about 1,100 rpm for 10+ minutes. Temp goes up to 145F on the gage then stays there. How can I know the T-stat is opening? Is there a change in water flow coming out of the outdrive?