Running Hot?

[maphillips3]

I am new to this boating thing, and this forum is great! Can anyone tell me what an ideal running temperature should be for a 1986 Bayliner with a 2.3L volvo engine? It seems to be running pretty warm. Also, what are some of the things that may cause this? And last, what is the least expensive way to check them? Thanks!

 

[Phantom17]

Re: Running Hot?

Welcome to iboats!<br /><br />It shouldn't exceed 180. It probably has a 160 thermostat, which will begin to open at 160 and be fully open at 180. When was the last time the impeller pump was changed? There are many things that cause hot engines, but first of all buy a manual. It is as important in my opinion as there being gas in your tank! What is it running at now? BTW, never start the enigine without water going to it!!!!<br />-Jeff

 

[Don S]

Re: Running Hot?

Most boat engines do not exceed 180° when running, but the Volvo 4 cylinder OHC engines do.<br />They normally operate between 185° and 190°.<br />You asked "what are some of the things that may cause this?", there are a lot of things affecting cooling on a boat. On the Volvo you have a closed cooling side with antifreeze, and a raw water side with raw water coming in from the outdrive pickups.<br />Best thing to do is get a service manual and learn how the system works.

 

[maphillips3]

Re: Running Hot?

I will have to go look at the books to see when the impeller was last changed. I just bought it a few weeks ago with little boat knowledge. However, it was previously owned by a NASA engineer and he kept maticulus records, I am sure it will say when the impeller was last changed.I have only started it out of the water when I had a garden hose running to the earmuffs over the sea water intake. Should there be water coming out of the exaust when I am doing this?

 

[Phantom17]

Re: Running Hot?

My bad, didn't think it was a closed system. <br />Thanks Don.

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Running Hot?

Yes there should be water coming out of the exhaust

 

[maphillips3]

Re: Running Hot?

Should that happen immediately or will it take a couple minutes of running? After running it for maybe 3 minutes I still had no water coming from the exaust anyone know what might be the reason? Thanks!

 

[jeff13601]

Re: Running Hot?

Im sorry, I didnt see it was a closed system. I do not know where the water comes out with both cooling systems

 

[bigdaddyofhouse]

Re: Running Hot?

some thing has to keep the exhaust cool

 

[maphillips3]

Re: Running Hot?

Does anyone know where the water should come out of the 2.3L Volve 4 Cly. When you have the ear muffs attached to it? Anything would be helpful. It is currently running at 195/200 but that is running it pretty hard.