Overheating Problem?

Discussion in 'Inboards' started by babs240sx, Aug 16, 2010.

  1. babs240sx
    Joined: Feb 2010
    Posts: 6
    Likes: 0, Points: 0, Legacy Rep: 10
    Location: Flagstaff, AZ

    babs240sx Junior Member

    I have a 1976 ford 302 in my boat. I had it out at the lake and noticed it was overheating like crazy. My first thought was that the water pump was ****, which I was right, the rubber gear that spins the water was worn down. So I replaced it thinking that must have been it but its still overheating. I searched to replace the thermostat too while I was at it but there is not one on my engine and when I my buddie asked the marine shop they said boats do not need thermostats. Is this true? Sounds like bs to me but who knows.
     
  2. CDK
    Joined: Aug 2007
    Posts: 3,324
    Likes: 148, Points: 63, Legacy Rep: 1819
    Location: Adriatic sea

    CDK retired engineer

    The marine shop guy doesn't have a clue.
    Your engine needs a thermostat to reach the proper operating temperature. "Overheating" can be caused by mud, rust flakes, plastic, weeds, a defective circulation pump or a bad temp. gauge.
     
  3. FAST FRED
    Joined: Oct 2002
    Posts: 4,519
    Likes: 111, Points: 63, Legacy Rep: 1009
    Location: Conn in summers , Ortona FL in winter , with big d

    FAST FRED Senior Member

    the rubber gear that spins the water was worn down

    If bits pieces and chunks were missing , you have to back flush and get them out of the engines cooling passages.

    Check the timing , too much advance (worn points) can cause too much heat.

    FF
     

  4. Carteret
    Joined: Jan 2004
    Posts: 119
    Likes: 6, Points: 18, Legacy Rep: 137
    Location: Eastern NC

    Carteret Senior Member

    There is also the possibility that there is air trapped in the top of the engine that occurred when the coolant system was opened. I like to place a plug or a petcock in the top of the engine near to where the thermostat housing is, (usually) drilled and tapped on top of the t-stat housing to bleed off air. Fill and bleed before starting the engine and then again soon after start up. If you wait and bleed after the engine is warm the steam that usually escapes (air hot water mixture) can be quite painfull.
     
Loading...
Forum posts represent the experience, opinion, and view of individual users. Boat Design Net does not necessarily endorse nor share the view of each individual post.
When making potentially dangerous or financial decisions, always employ and consult appropriate professionals. Your circumstances or experience may be different.