JohnH wrote:

On Tue, 13 Jul 2004 23:24:33 -0400, mike hicks wrote:
[snip]

Mike, I have the same engine in a 1997, also in the Bay. If this were
mine, I'd replace the thermostat first, and then see what happens. Have
the manifolds and risers *ever* been replaced?

My normal operating temp is about 160. It gets there and stays there.

Hopefully, some of the mechanic types will provide a little more, and
better, information.

John H

On the 'Poco Loco' out of Deale, MD,
on the beautiful Chesapeake Bay!

Greetings:

On my friend's boat there were a couple of hoses that (IIRC) came
out of the thermostat housing to the front of the heat exchangers. Inside
these two hoses (one on either side) was a small check ball mounted on a
brass rod with a spring on it that passed through the thermostat housing so
that there is one ball on each side. They have a nasty habit of getting
mineral deposit buildup and sticking (closed) to the thermostat housing. If
you have these try cleaning them up real good. Good luck!

-Jason